Want to Learn AI but Worried About Costs?... How to Get Allowances and Vouchers [The Principle of Benefits]

Demand for 'Learning AI' Grows Beyond Simple Use
A Wide Range of Educational Support, from Allowances to Vouchers

Editor's Note'You see as much as you know, and you save as much as you know.' We live in an age overflowing with information, yet there are still many things we alone might miss. In [The Principle of Benefits], we deliver useful news that can help you earn or save money in everyday life if you know it, but could lead to a loss if you don't.

#A, a 20-something office worker based in Seoul, is recently considering whether to start learning generative artificial intelligence (AI) in earnest. They want to go beyond simply using programs like ChatGPT or Gemini and apply AI more concretely in their work. However, the more they look into academies or online courses, the more burdensome the costs seem, making it difficult to take the first step.

Visitors attending the '2025 AI Summit Seoul & Expo' held at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, are experiencing an AI consultation program. Photo by The Asia Business Daily Database

The use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) is, in fact, increasing rapidly. According to an analysis of the Korea Media Panel 2024·2025 by the Korea Information Society Development Institute (KISDI), the domestic utilization rate of generative AI grew by 17.9 percentage points from 13.7% in 2024 to 31.6% in 2025. Notably, the usage increase among people in their 20s was 33.6 percentage points, and among the economically active population, wage workers had the highest generative AI usage rate at 39.7%. This suggests that more and more people are seeking to utilize AI for practical work, rather than just "trying it out" once.

In response to this trend, the government is also expanding its support for AI and digital education. The Ministry of Education and 17 city and provincial governments plan to support a total of 115,000 people through lifelong education vouchers in 2026, with 10,000 of these vouchers specifically for AI and digital learning. The Ministry of Employment and Labor is also strengthening its K-Digital Training with an AI focus, aiming to train 10,000 engineers in key fields such as AI system development and AI application software development through the 'AI Campus' program.

'AI Campus' by the Ministry of Employment and Labor...Strengths of Allowance-Based Support

First is the 'AI Campus' within the K-Digital Training program offered by the Ministry of Employment and Labor. Starting this year, the ministry plans to invest approximately 130 billion won annually through the 'AI Campus' curriculum to train AI specialists. Participants in the AI Campus receive a monthly allowance of up to 400,000 won in the Seoul metropolitan area, up to 600,000 won outside the metropolitan area, and up to 800,000 won in regions with declining populations. According to the Employment24 information page, participants in some K-Digital Training courses, including AI Campus, receive an additional special training allowance, with the amount determined by attendance days and training hours. However, if attendance falls below 80%, the allowance is not provided.

For young people or job seekers who want to invest significant time in learning AI, this is one of the most tangible forms of support. It doesn't just reduce tuition costs; if certain conditions are met, participants can receive an allowance during their training. However, the actual amount of support and the operational details may vary by program, so applicants should check the detailed announcements posted on Employment24 before applying.

If You're Over 30, the 350,000 Won 'AI·Digital Voucher'

AI-generated image to aid in understanding the article. ChatGPT

The Ministry of Education's AI and Digital Lifelong Education Voucher is a lighter entry option. According to the ministry, this system provides 350,000 won in educational support per person for those aged 30 or older who wish to take lifelong learning courses related to AI or digital skills.

The support is provided in the form of a voucher, not direct cash. According to the Lifelong Education Voucher website and Seoul regional announcements, selected participants receive an NH Nonghyup Chaeum Card in their name, loaded with points that can be used to pay for lifelong education course fees and textbook costs. According to the first announcement for the 2026 AI and Digital Lifelong Voucher in Seoul, the support amount is 350,000 won, and eligibility is limited to those born on or before December 31, 1996. While this may not immediately apply to office workers in their 20s, it can lower the entry barrier for those in their 30s or older seeking a career change.

AI Courses with the Naeilbaeum Card...Remote Courses for Beginners

AI-generated image to help understand the article. ChatGPT

Even if you do not meet the age requirement for the Lifelong Education Voucher, you can find AI and digital courses through the National Naeilbaeum Card. According to Employment24, the National Naeilbaeum Card provides a basic support of 3 million won over five years, with an additional 2 million won available based on eligibility. However, this does not automatically exempt all tuition fees; typically, you are responsible for 15–55% of the cost.

For beginners, the K-Digital Basic Competency Training is also worth considering. This course offers fully remote digital training at the beginner to intermediate level, covering basic coding such as Python, big data analysis, web design, video editing, and using ChatGPT. In addition to the general Naeilbaeum Card support limit, an extra 500,000 won is provided exclusively for the course fee of this program. However, since it is a remote training course, the training incentive (such as transportation and meal expenses) provided for in-person programs is not available. In other words, this is more of an "online beginner support type" than an "allowance-based" program.

As shown, support for AI education varies by program and target group. With a wide range of options from long-term courses to beginner classes, the key is to select and make use of the program that best fits your situation, learning objectives, and eligibility requirements.

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