Daejeon is introducing new scholarship programs that reflect the city's distinctive character as a science hub.
The Daejeon Youth Tomorrow Foundation announced on the 3rd that it will completely overhaul its existing scholarship system in response to changing educational environments, including the implementation of free education.
The reform shifts from selecting talented students based primarily on academic performance to evaluating diverse competencies and growth potential, with a focus on supporting development into competitive "Daejeon-style" talent.
The foundation has established a "Science Scholarship" for students entering local science and engineering universities, and a "Kkumdori Scholarship" for individuals with potential to contribute to regional development and strong character. The Kkumdori Scholarship, targeting university and graduate students, provides up to 5 million won per person.
Additionally, the foundation has adjusted eligibility criteria and support amounts for existing "Talent Scholarships," "Achievement Scholarships," and "International Student Scholarships," while also providing living expense scholarships for nurturing local talent and self-development.
This year, 704 scholarship recipients will be selected, with 1.015 billion won in scholarships to be distributed—an increase of 181.5 million won from the previous year.
The foundation expects the reform will expand the foundation for nurturing local talent who will lead Daejeon's future through customized support that reflects the city's unique characteristics.
The foundation also plans to support students' continued growth by strengthening networks through career mentoring camps, domestic and international field trips to advanced facilities in Daejeon's strategic industries, and scholarship recipient exchange meetings.
"The ideal talent that society and companies seek is rapidly changing," said Kwon Hyung-rye, CEO of the Daejeon Youth Tomorrow Foundation. "The foundation will continue its efforts and spare no support in nurturing innovative talent who will lead future growth."