The Busan Metropolitan Office of Education (Superintendent Kim Seokjun) will gradually increase staffing at small schools struggling with the operation of two-person administrative offices, aiming to resolve this issue by 2029.


A two-person administrative office refers to the administrative office of a small school, consisting of one administrative director and one administrative staff member. These offices have continuously raised concerns in the education field due to excessive workloads, difficulties in taking leave, and inadequate response to emergencies. Last year, the suicide of a staff member at a two-person administrative office in the Jeonbuk region became a significant social issue.


The Busan Metropolitan Office of Education has been in ongoing discussions with the civil servants’ union, the elementary school principals’ association, and other stakeholders to address these concerns. In particular, since 2023, a dedicated task force has been formed to discuss improvement measures. However, there have been limitations in expanding staff numbers due to the Ministry of Education's total personnel expenditure regulations.


Currently, 38 elementary schools are subject to the resolution of the two-person administrative office issue. The Busan Metropolitan Office of Education plans to assign additional staff to 7 to 8 schools each year until 2029, taking into account trends in the number of classes. The reinforcement of personnel will take effect annually on July 1, and this year, seven schools, including Taejongdae Elementary School, will be prioritized.



Superintendent Kim Seokjun stated, "By gradually resolving the two-person administrative office issue, we will reduce the workload and administrative risks faced by small schools," adding, "We will continue to reflect feedback from the field and do our utmost to improve working conditions for faculty and staff."

Busan Metropolitan Office of Education

Busan Metropolitan Office of Education

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