Seoul: Acting President Choi Sang-mok is anticipated to veto two bills led by the opposition, which propose the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated educational materials and the extension of subsidies for free high school education, as indicated by the ruling party.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the ruling People Power Party has urged Choi to utilize his veto power against these bills, which were approved by the opposition-majority National Assembly last month. Choi, who also holds the position of finance minister, is expected to support Cabinet motions that call for the reconsideration of the subsidy extension bill on Tuesday and the AI materials bill on January 21, as stated by officials from the ruling party.
In the previous month, the National Assembly passed an amendment to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, classifying AI-generated digital textbooks as educational resources. The revised act restricts textbooks to printed books and e-books, while AI-generated learning content is deemed supplementary class material. However, the education ministry has raised concerns over potential "confusion" within schools and society.
Additionally, the Assembly approved a revision to the Local Education Subsidy Act, which seeks to prolong temporary government provisions for free high school education by three years, extending through 2027. South Korea currently provides free education for elementary and middle school students.