Enthusiasm for lifelong learning is running high among Incheon residents, with applications for this year's lifelong education voucher program more than doubling from last year.
The Incheon Human Resources Development Institute for Lifelong Education announced the results of applications for the "2026 Incheon-Style Lifelong Education Voucher" on Tuesday. About 12,900 people applied, a 127% increase from last year, and 6,048 were ultimately selected.
◆ Surging Demand Among Disabled and Vulnerable Groups Amid AI and Digital Boom
By category, competition was fiercest for the AI and digital voucher. A total of 5,490 applicants vied for 531 spots, producing a competition ratio of 10.3 to 1. The surge is attributed to rising demand for related education among residents aged 30 and older amid the broader digital transformation.
The senior voucher drew 1,687 applicants for 425 spots, a 4-to-1 ratio. The general voucher also exceeded its quota, with 5,102 applicants competing for 4,472 spots at a 1.1-to-1 ratio. Even basic livelihood recipients, who are given priority selection, exceeded the quota and had to go through a lottery.
The disabled voucher attracted 665 applicants for 620 spots, a 1.1-to-1 ratio. It marked the first time the quota has been fully filled since the program launched. The institute said the program has entered a stable track in its second year.
Selected recipients receive up to 350,000 won per person in NH Nonghyup Chaeum Card points. They can freely enroll in online and offline courses offered by registered institutions.
Selection gave priority to basic livelihood recipients and the near-poor class. Applicants with equal priority were chosen through an online random lottery conducted in the presence of an auditor.
"Demand is rising so sharply that competition is emerging even among vulnerable groups," said Lee Yoon-ho, president of the institute. "With the disabled voucher filling its quota for the first time, the program's results are becoming visible."
The institute plans to continue strengthening its dedicated counseling center and operational system to meet growing demand.
