The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education (SMOE) is undertaking a complete redesign of its vocational education system in line with the artificial intelligence (AI) transformation trend. The initiative aims to build a 'K-Vocational Education' standard model in response to structural changes where vocational high school enrollment is shrinking due to a declining school-age population, even as industry demand for skilled technical talent continues to grow.
SMOE announced on Tuesday that it has established and will implement the 'Seoul Student Vocational Education Comprehensive Plan (2026–2029).' The plan focuses on overhauling vocational education across the board, with three core pillars: nurturing robotics convergence talent, expanding global vocational education, and improving the educational framework based on AI transformation (AX).
First, the office will strengthen customized vocational education centered on student growth. It will expand eligibility for the Seoul Student Robot Competition (SSRC) from vocational high school students to all high school students and establish pathways from AI and robotics practical training through certification to employment. Global field learning combining international joint classes and overseas corporate experiences will also be expanded, with the number of participating vocational high schools increasing to 36 by 2029 to broaden overseas employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
SMOE will also build a virtuous cycle model of 'education-employment-settlement' linking local governments, companies, and universities. The number of companies participating in contract-based specialized high schools will be expanded to 45 organizations by 2029, and scholarships of approximately 3.5 million won per student will be provided to those seeking employment. Industry-academia cooperation-based job matching programs will also be strengthened to enhance field connectivity.
The curriculum will be reorganized around AI. Reflecting the trend of expanding AI adoption across all industrial sectors, 'AX-focused specialized high schools' — which integrate AI into major-specific education — will increase from five schools in 2026 to 20 by 2029 and be established as the standard model for vocational education.
The foundation for cultivating advanced industry talent will also be expanded. Starting with the opening of Seoul Semiconductor High School, a Meister high school specializing in semiconductors, in March 2027, SMOE will add one advanced industry Meister high school each year. An 'Advanced Joint Education and Research Center' in cooperation with Seoul National University of Science and Technology is also targeted for completion in the first half of 2030.
"This comprehensive plan marks a turning point for Seoul's vocational education in responding to the AI era," SMOE said. "We will support students in designing career paths suited to their aptitudes and growing into core talent."