Seoul, South Korea – South Korea's Ministry of Education and textbook publishers remain at an impasse over the subscription fees for newly developed AI-powered digital textbooks, according to sources. While publishers have proposed annual subscription fees ranging from 40,000 to 110,000 won per subject, the ministry has capped the maximum fee at 42,500 won. The ongoing dispute has cast doubt on whether a final agreement can be reached by the end of the year.

During a briefing with opposition lawmakers on Wednesday, the Ministry of Education provided an update on the negotiation process for AI textbooks. Despite three rounds of negotiations since the release of AI textbook evaluations on November 29, the two sides have yet to find common ground on pricing.

Ministry officials explained that the initially proposed fee of 110,000 won per subject was a starting point and has since been adjusted. They expressed optimism that a consensus could be reached by the end of the year.

Initially, the Ministry had requested that local education offices budget 37,500 won per subject for AI textbooks in the upcoming fiscal year. However, this figure has been revised upward to 42,500 won due to the ongoing negotiations. This increase will necessitate additional budget allocations, as local education offices are responsible for funding textbooks used in public and private schools nationwide, excluding national schools.

To address the potential financial burden on local education offices, the Ministry is considering using special grants to cover the additional costs. Education Minister Lee Ju-ho previously stated that the government would provide special grants if necessary.

However, the entire discussion hinges on the classification of AI textbooks. A recent amendment to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, passed by the opposition-controlled National Assembly, reclassifies AI textbooks from "textbooks" to "educational materials." This change would grant schools more discretion in selecting AI textbooks, potentially rendering the current fee negotiations moot.

The amended bill is expected to be put to a plenary vote on December 26 or 31. When asked about the possibility of exercising the right to veto the bill, Education Ministry spokesperson Koo Yeon-hee stated that the matter is currently under review.

During a meeting with ruling party lawmakers on Wednesday, the Ministry proposed a gradual rollout of AI textbooks in schools starting next year, allowing for evaluation of their effectiveness. However, opposition lawmakers have expressed reservations about accepting this proposal.

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