SEOUL, South Korea — A total of 49 schools across South Korea will shut down this year as the school-age population continues to shrink, according to the Korea Herald. This marks a significant rise in closures, with 33 schools closing in 2024, compared to 22 the previous year.
Most of the closures are in rural areas, with 38 elementary schools, 8 middle schools, and 3 high schools affected. Gyeonggi Province, surrounding Seoul, will lose six schools, while South Jeolla Province, the southernmost region, reports the highest number with 10 schools closing.
Despite the closures, Seoul itself will not face any school shutdowns. Elementary schools in rural areas are particularly struggling with declining enrollments.
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