Hong Nam-ki: "Skeptical About Resolving University Tuition Refunds with Government Funds"

Deputy Prime Minister for Economy Hong Nam-ki is attending the full meeting of the National Assembly's Strategy and Finance Committee on the 17th, responding to questions from lawmakers. Photo by Yoon Dong-ju doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hye-min] On the 17th, Hong Nam-ki, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, said regarding demands for tuition refunds from universities conducting remote classes due to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), "While we can consider financial support, it is not appropriate for the government budget to cover it."

Deputy Prime Minister Hong responded this way during the first meeting of the National Assembly's Planning and Finance Committee in the afternoon, answering a question from Kim Kyung-hyup, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, stating, "It is a matter for the universities that have collected tuition to decide on their own."

Hong said, "It is not appropriate for the government to mention support measures or devise plans before universities make such decisions. Universities should prioritize making autonomous decisions, and if necessary, the government can also consider expanding the framework for financial support and other means."

Regarding Kim's suggestion that if students and universities agree on a tuition reduction, the government could reflect partial sharing in the supplementary budget (추경), Hong emphasized the need to prioritize fiscal support.

Hong stated, "I understand that universities have also faced significant revenue declines due to not operating dormitories during online classes and a decrease in international student inflow. Although universities are struggling, compared to other private sectors like self-employed businesses, the level of damage is less, and this should be considered when deciding on financial support."

When Kim criticized Hong for taking a conservative stance on the situation, Hong replied, "There is a difference of opinion on prioritizing limited resources, but we are also reviewing the matter." However, he added, "I am skeptical about whether it is appropriate to cover tuition refunds with government funds. If universities decide to refund tuition and face financial difficulties, we could consider measures within the university budget framework to provide support."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.