President Lee Jae-myung visited a public special education school for students with intellectual disabilities in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, on Tuesday.
The president visited Ieun School in Yullyang-dong, Cheongwon-gu, where he listened to opinions from parents and faculty on special education policy. He then toured the facilities and observed classes.
"I fully understand how heavy the burden of life is that families of children with disabilities carry, not just the children themselves," Lee told parents, according to a written briefing from Jeon Eun-su, deputy spokesperson for the Presidential Office.
To faculty members, the president said: "I hope you will forever nurture the love in your hearts so that your noble intentions—having chosen this path with a special sense of mission—can be well conveyed to the children."
Lee asked detailed questions about student-to-teacher ratios, school operations, and satisfaction levels. He also inquired whether closed or consolidated regular schools could be converted into special education facilities.
After touring customized facilities for students with disabilities, the president sat alongside students in a classroom to observe lessons. During the class, he helped students attach animal drawings to paper hats and assisted with musical instrument practice.
Ieun School, which opened in 2023, is the nation's first public special education school dedicated to preschool and elementary students with intellectual disabilities, designed to provide tailored education at each stage of development.