Jeju island

Jeju island

Impact of Declining Enrollment on Jeju Island

Jeju Island is facing a critical challenge as the enrollment in its international schools has dropped significantly, from 4,868 students in 2023 to 4,133 in 2025. This decline has raised concerns about the sustainability of these institutions, which have played a vital role in revitalizing rural areas and attracting families to the region.

The enrollment rate in these schools has also seen a steep decline, falling from 90 percent in 2023 to 71.7 percent in 2025. This trend is particularly alarming given that Jeju’s international schools have absorbed education spending worth 1.42 trillion won since their establishment in 2011, highlighting their economic significance.

Located in Daejeong-eup, where the population has grown from around 17,000 in 2010 to 21,600 in 2025, these schools have contributed to local demographic changes. However, the increasing number of regional communities at risk of extinction in Korea, which nearly doubled from 61 in 2010 to 119 in 2023, raises questions about the long-term viability of such educational initiatives.

Adora Cruises is set to enhance tourism by operating from Dalian starting May 27, 2025, with Jeju Island as a key stop. This move aims to promote cruise tourism and improve infrastructure, potentially attracting more visitors and families to the island.

Despite these efforts, the future of Jeju’s international schools remains uncertain. The competition from unaccredited schools and the overall decline in enrollment could jeopardize their existence. Kim Sang-bong, an education expert, noted, “Even considering Jeju’s unique circumstances as a leisure destination, it is hard to say all the schools there are successful.”

Local officials, including Oh Young-hun, have expressed intentions to review various policy measures to establish the Global Education City as a hub for residential education services. However, the central government’s involvement is crucial, as emphasized by Kim Jin-tae, who stated, “The central government should take part in consultations with a positive attitude and consider the issue from a broader perspective.”

As the local elections approach, the establishment of international schools is re-emerging as a major educational pledge. However, the long-term sustainability of these schools remains unclear due to declining enrollment and competition.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the impact of international schools on regional population decline, leaving stakeholders to navigate an uncertain future.