Over the past few days, it appears that the rate of school field trips and retreats has been declining, with significant regional variations.
According to data submitted by the Ministry of Education on October 24, 2025, to Representative Kim Moon-soo of the Democratic Party of Korea on the National Assembly’s Education Committee, the implementation rate of field trips for elementary, middle, and high school students—which had risen to 68.48% in 2024—decreased to 62.24% in 2025. This has created a strange situation in which these events—which should be filled with excitement for students—have significantly decreased across different regions.
Although the nationwide participation rate declined during the survey period, there were significant regional variations. While regions such as Daegu, Jeju, and South Gyeongsang recorded participation rates of over 90%, indicating that the events were being planned and carried out smoothly, participation in some regions continued to decline. This is clear evidence of just how difficult it is to conduct field trips on the ground. Students who had been looking forward to the festive atmosphere of the field trip and had planned to prepare in advance are reacting with disbelief.
Representative Kim Moon-soo stated, “Even when we want to go on field trips, there are obstacles that make it difficult, and the burden is heavy,” emphasizing the need for comprehensive government-level administrative support and revisions to relevant laws and regulations. He concluded by saying, “I believe the solution lies not in dedication, but in the system.”
As the relevant statistics were released, netizens on online communities have been posting a steady stream of comments expressing their regret. Unmarried mothers pushing strollers and parents of Chinese descent also agreed that it is time for the government to pool its wisdom to protect their children’s precious memories.
