Students experiencing rafting on the Seomjin River (Image provided by Lee Myung-woo, the interviewee)
GURYE, South Korea, Jan. 25 (Korea Bizwire) — What began as a local experiment to combat population decline and repurpose abandoned schools has turned Gurye County, a small municipality in South Jeolla Province, into a beacon of rural education.
The initiative, known as “Studying in Rural Areas,” has attracted families from across the country seeking a slower pace of life and stronger community ties for their children.
With a population of just 24,000, Gurye is the smallest local government in South Jeolla, yet it has emerged as the leading destination for rural study programs in the region. This year, 93 students from 65 families relocated to Gurye for the program, representing 25.8% of all participants in South Jeolla Province.
Among them is Lee Myung-woo, 50, who originally planned a six-month rural education experience for his child in 2021. Four years later, he and his family remain in Gurye, having embraced its unique blend of natural beauty, community-driven education, and government support.
Students from Gwangui Elementary School are participating in a hands-on rice harvesting experience in a rural field during autumn. (Image provided by Lee Myung-woo, the interviewee)
“The harmony between active parental participation and robust local government support has been key to the program’s success,” said Mr. Lee, who now contributes to after-school programs as a former documentary producer. “What stood out most is the vibrant community life and the openness of residents. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a place to grow.”
The program allows children to build social skills in small, tight-knit schools where they interact across grade levels and take on various roles, from participating in musical performances to solving real-world problems.
Parents also contribute by volunteering their skills, from teaching ecology and English to organizing extracurricular activities like orchestras and traditional Korean drumming.
This grassroots approach has garnered nationwide attention, amplified by parents who share their experiences through blogs, social media, and online forums. One example is Gwangui Elementary School, where the collaboration between teachers and parents has created an innovative learning environment that has become a model for other regions.
Hikers visiting the summit of Nogodan Peak on Mount Jirisan in Toji-myeon, Gurye County, South Jeolla Province, are enjoying views of the Seomjin River and the fields of Gurye.
Local government initiatives have further fueled the program’s popularity. Gurye County provides up to 20 million won in housing repair subsidies per family and recently increased its monthly living stipend for participants from 200,000 won to 400,000 won.
Starting this year, the county will also offer a 1 million won scholarship to support middle school enrollment for rural study participants. Additionally, two rural education housing complexes with 46 units are in development to improve living conditions for families.
Despite the program’s success, participants emphasize the importance of fostering integration between newcomers and long-standing residents. “It’s essential to invest in initiatives like renovating local farms, providing job opportunities, and educating parents on rural living,” said Mr. Lee.
“Families should approach this program with open minds and a willingness to adapt to life in a small school and a close community. The rewards are deeply fulfilling.”
As Gurye continues to grow its rural education initiative, it sets a powerful example for other regions grappling with declining populations and unused educational infrastructure. With its focus on community, adaptability, and sustainability, Gurye offers a blueprint for revitalizing rural areas across South Korea.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
