Education Minister Lee Ju-ho announces the certification results of AI-based textbooks and unveils the adjusted rollout plan at the Government Complex Seoul, Friday. Yonhap

The government will introduce artificial intelligence (AI) textbooks for English, mathematics and information technology classes starting next year, despite concerns about the effectiveness of digital learning and the potential for increased digital dependency among teenagers, the Ministry of Education said Friday.

AI textbooks will be rolled out as planned in March next year for the three subjects, targeting third and fourth graders in elementary school, as well as first-year students in middle and high school.

"The new digital textbooks are designed to support personalized learning by tailoring content to each student's level and pace. Teachers will also have access to data-driven insights, enabling more customized educational plans," Education Minister Lee Ju-ho said during a press briefing.

However, the ministry announced adjustment plans that will be applied from 2026. Digital textbooks will not be used in Korean and home economics, while the rollout for social studies and science will be delayed until 2027.

These adjustment plans came in response to a request from the National Council of Governors of Education to slow the pace of the initiative, including delaying the introduction of AI textbooks for certain subjects.

The request to adjust the pace stemmed from concerns that the AI textbooks could aggravate excessive dependence on digital devices among children, while teachers have not been fully prepared for the new teaching tools, and schools have yet to receive the necessary budgets.

"The ministry has been engaging with parents and teachers through various channels, actively listening to their feedback," Lee said.

"We have carefully monitored the concerns raised during these discussions and have been reviewing policy alternatives since the development of AI digital textbooks."

The education ministry completed its review of AI-powered digital textbooks, approving 76 out of 146 that applied for certification.

Starting Monday, the certified textbooks will be displayed at schools, which will choose the ones to use in classrooms starting in the upcoming school year, alongside existing print books.

However, some warn that AI textbooks may face significant hurdles, with only three months remaining until the new semester.

The relevant bill, passed by the National Assembly's education committee, Thursday, classifies digital textbooks as educational materials rather than official textbooks.

Unlike textbooks, which must be adopted by all schools, educational materials are optional and can be used at the discretion of school principals.

Regarding this, Lee expressed concerns that if the bill is passed by the Assembly's plenary session and confirmed as it is, it could not only deprive students of equal educational opportunities and hinder educational reforms, but also widen the existing educational gap.

"If the bill is applied, it will cause significant confusion in schools that have been preparing to implement these resources," the minister said.