
Superintendent Jung Keun-sik of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education voiced support for the National Assembly's decision to downgrade the use of AI digital textbooks to optional instead of mandatory.
In a New Year's press briefing Tuesday, Jung addressed the issue, which has sparked debate across South Korea. The initiative to introduce artificial intelligence-based textbooks was a landmark effort in the education sector here, drawing global attention over whether South Korea would become the first country to implement such textbooks on a national scale.
However, with the National Assembly’s recent amendment to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, these AI-generated materials will now be used as supplementary tools rather than official textbooks.
"This is a significant step that requires careful consideration," Jung said. "Implementing AI in education should not be rushed. It's not too late to adopt these technologies as official textbooks once their educational efficacy is proven through their use as class materials."
Jung also expressed concerns about AI digital textbooks being used on a national scale, as their content could be updated more frequently due to the fast speed of development in digital content.
The Assembly’s amendment defines textbooks strictly as printed books and e-books, relegating AI-generated content to the category of supplementary materials. It also grants school principals, rather than the education minister, the authority to decide whether to adopt AI-based instructional tools.
This decision effectively postponed the Education Ministry's plan to introduce AI digital textbooks in subjects such as English and mathematics starting in March.
Jung's cautious stance reflects the broader uncertainty surrounding AI integration in education.
While proponents argue that AI textbooks can provide personalized learning experiences, critics worry about increased screen time and the readiness of schools to implement such technology.
"We must ensure that the integration of AI aligns with our educational goals and values," Jung added. "Our priority is the students' learning experience, and we should adopt new technologies only when we're confident they will truly benefit from them."
Supporting the National Assembly's decision, Jung emphasized the importance of thoroughly assessing the role of AI in education. The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education plans to monitor the use of AI materials in schools, gathering data to guide future decisions on technology adoption.
In December, Education Minister Lee Ju-ho, however, expressed concern over the revision, stating that it could cause "confusion" in schools and hinder the government’s push for digital education innovation.
With the ministry expressing its intention to request a reconsideration of the recently passed legislation, the conflict surrounding the legal status of AI textbooks could persist.
The National Assembly's Education Committee will also hold a hearing on Jan. 17 to assess the Yoon Suk Yeol administration's plan to introduce AI digital textbooks with 18 witnesses, including the education minister and 13 references.