Korea Forest Service Expands Domestic Wood Use in Childcare Facilities

The Korea Forest Service announced Wednesday that it is recruiting 20 private childcare centers to participate in a program that converts indoor spaces to domestic wood materials, with applications accepted through January 19, 2026.

Eligible facilities include corporate, workplace, home-based, cooperative, and private childcare centers. Applicants must have a total floor area of at least 300 square meters and must be certified asbestos-free as of the application date. Public and social welfare corporation childcare centers are excluded from this program as they receive support through separate initiatives.

Interested facilities can apply through the relevant department at their local municipal offices. Application deadlines may vary by region, and applicants are advised to confirm with their local government in advance.

Selected facilities will receive up to 70 million won ($51,000) in project funding from national and local governments, with a required self-contribution of 30 million won.

"Wood is an eco-friendly, human-friendly material that can contribute to children's emotional development and help alleviate conditions such as atopic dermatitis, creating a more comfortable childcare environment," said Lee Sung-jin, director of the Wood Industry Division at the Korea Forest Service. "We hope many private childcare centers will take interest and participate in this valuable opportunity for children to grow up naturally experiencing wood."