유아교육·보육(ECEC) 정책 성과와 과제(Ⅲ)

Abstract

This study examines the mid-term performance and remaining challenges of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) policies in Korea, focusing on initiatives implemented under the Third Basic Plan for Early Childhood Education Development (2023–2027) and the Fourth Mid- to Long-Term Childcare Plan (2023–2027). As 2025 marks the midpoint of both plans, the study aims to assess policy achievements, identify areas requiring improvement, and suggest policy directions to strengthen the effectiveness of ECEC integration reforms. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining document analysis, national statistics review, surveys of parents and ECEC professionals, in-depth interviews with practitioners and local officials, and expert consultations. International ECEC policy trends were also reviewed using data from the OECD, the European Commission, and Eurydice to provide comparative perspectives. Findings indicate that demand-side financial support policies, including education fee subsidies and parental allowances, have shown relatively strong performance, with high parental satisfaction and perceived effectiveness in reducing childcare costs. Policies supporting children with special needs were also positively evaluated. In contrast, system-level reforms—such as ECEC integration, digital readiness, and the sustainability of small-scale institutions, particularly in rural and depopulating areas—were perceived as less effective and in need of further policy attention. In early childhood education, curriculum-related policies, including the stabilization of the play-based national curriculum and strengthened linkage between early childhood and primary education, were generally assessed favorably. However, parental education initiatives and teacher support systems revealed limitations in accessibility and consistency. In childcare policy, service expansion and quality management reforms contributed to improved accessibility and safety, yet challenges remain regarding teacher workforce stability, teacher–child ratios, and governance coordination. The study concludes that while Korea’s ECEC policies have achieved meaningful progress in financial support and service expansion, future efforts should focus on reducing regional disparities, strengthening systemic coherence, and aligning policy design more closely with field-level needs. These priorities are essential for improving policy sustainability and ensuring equitable developmental outcomes for all young children.