Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming part of everyday classroom life, especially in South Korea, where schools are testing how far AI can go in supporting student learning. Tools like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini are no longer seen as futuristic gadgets—they’re being used as personal tutors that walk students through difficult math problems step by step. Korea’s Ministry of Education has even introduced AI-driven digital textbooks that adjust the pace and difficulty of lessons based on each student’s progress.

These digital textbooks, first introduced in March 2025 for grades 3, 4, 7, and 10, were designed to personalize learning in subjects such as English, mathematics, and information science. The idea was simple: give students tailored support while helping teachers save time on planning and diagnostics. With nearly $740 million invested in training and infrastructure, the government hoped the program would set a global example.

But the rollout proved more complicated than expected. Soon after the launch, students, teachers, and parents raised concerns about factual mistakes, data privacy risks, and increased screen time. Many felt the training teachers received wasn’t enough—one survey showed that over 98% of educators did not feel prepared. By the end of the semester, the AI textbooks were downgraded from official status to supplementary material. Adoption remained low, especially in elementary schools, where fewer than a third chose to use the new system.

Despite the setbacks, interest in AI in education is not fading. Policymakers are now debating whether AI should become its own subject, taught across all grade levels. The push reflects a broader national effort to strengthen digital literacy and develop future AI talent. Globally, adoption is rising as well—an Education Week survey reported that 61% of U.S. teachers were using AI tools by mid-2025. In response, OpenAI launched “ChatGPT for Teachers,” a dedicated space for educators to plan lessons and collaborate safely.

Korea’s experience shows that while AI brings exciting opportunities for personalized learning, careful preparation matters just as much. AI can make math feel more approachable, but it works best when guided by teachers who know how to balance technology with real human learning.

서민경 강남포스트 학생기자  webmaster@ignnews.kr

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