South Korea’s Minister of Education, Choi Kyo-jin, announced plans to expand the government’s initiative to elevate regional universities to the level of Seoul National University, often referred to as the “Seoul National University 10 project.” Following the selection of three institutions—Pusan National University, Chonnam National University, and Chungnam National University—earlier this year, the Ministry aims to add at least two more universities to the program in 2024.

Choi outlined the expansion plan during a parliamentary education committee inspection held on October 7, stating that the final decisions will be made through ongoing discussions with the National Assembly, including budget deliberations. The project seeks to boost investment in key national universities to strengthen their educational and research capabilities to rival those of Seoul National University.

The initiative, originally focused on science and engineering disciplines aligned with regional strategic industries, has received criticism for its narrow scope. Addressing these concerns, Choi acknowledged the need to broaden the project’s reach. “Because the program emphasizes nurturing talent linked to local industrial priorities, it often appears centered on the sciences,” he said. He pledged to increase support for basic academic fields as well as the humanities and social sciences.

Separately, the Ministry is reviewing measures to overhaul the university admissions application process after last year’s technical failure in the private UWayFly system disrupted early admission procedures. Choi revealed plans to transition fully to a public application system, aiming to restore reliability and fairness. He indicated a comprehensive reform of the application service, including revisiting the operation of third-party providers, enhancing transparency in selection through open competition, and revising the way examination numbers are assigned. These reforms are expected to be finalized before the regular admission cycle begins.

The Ministry’s dual focus on upgrading university competitiveness while improving admissions infrastructure reflects a broader effort to strengthen South Korea’s higher education system amid increasing demand for quality and fairness.