The Busan Metropolitan City (Mayor Park Heong-joon) announced the full-scale implementation of the “2025 Busan Digital Learning Center” program to provide accessible digital education for all citizens, especially those struggling with technology in daily life.
○ The “Digital Learning Center” program is jointly operated by the City, the Ministry of Science and ICT, and all 16 districts and counties in Busan.
It includes two main hubs (Sodambang on the 2nd floor of Busan Library and Room 112 at the Busan Eurasia Platform), multiple district education centers, and 17 digital experience zones, with courses underway since May 1.
In response to the rapid digital transition — including the rise of generative AI and the growth of non-face-to-face services — Busan has been offering digital education since 2020, covering a broad range of topics from using unmanned kiosks and smartphones to mastering AI tools.
○ Key course themes include:
– AI Applications
– Digital ID and Access to Public Services
– Financial Fraud Prevention (Security)
– Everyday Digital Skills
– Online Content Creation and Community Participation
Over the past five years, approximately 350,000 citizens, including seniors and people with disabilities, have benefited from the program, significantly contributing to reducing the digital divide in the region.
Case 1: Mobile Resident Registration Card
– Citizens in digitally vulnerable groups were trained in issuing and using the mobile resident registration card, helping them directly experience digital public services.
“After the training, I went to the local community center and issued my own mobile ID and resident registration certificate.
I felt empowered — now I don’t have to ask my family for help and can use mobile IDs at hospitals or government offices,” said one participant.
Case 2: My Health Record App
– Seniors received training on My Health Record App and AI-based digital healthcare zones, enabling personalized digital health management.
“I installed the app and checked my health records, then tried out various digital health devices.
I realized it wasn’t that hard. I used to rely on my children, but now I can manage my health by myself,” said a participant.
Case 3: Welfare Risk Alert App
– Home care workers for the elderly were trained in using the Welfare Risk Alert App, strengthening their ability to identify and respond to welfare blind spots.
“Sometimes I witness situations I can’t ignore during home visits, but didn’t know how to act immediately.
This training taught me practical digital tools I can use on-site,” said a care worker.
To further enhance accessibility, mobile classes are provided directly at local facilities such as senior centers and welfare centers for those who cannot visit training venues.
○ Additionally, the program provides five emulators for practicing common digital services such as issuing certificates, ordering food, and using public kiosks.
Video-based online educational content is also produced and distributed via the Busan Visual Archive.
To celebrate the 38th Information Culture Month, a special lecture titled “Generative AI and Ethics Everyone Should Know” will be held on June 23 at 3:00 p.m. at Shinhan Hakijae Busan (2nd floor, Shinhan Bank Building, Saessak-ro 6, Busanjin-gu).
Also, in collaboration with Lotte GRS, the “Digital Visit” initiative will continue through November, providing hands-on kiosk training at Lotteria stores for seniors.
○ Key June courses include:
– Using the Dongbaekjeon App (Busan's local currency platform)
– Getting Started with Generative AI
– Preventing Voice Phishing Scams
– Using Everyday Kiosks (Unmanned Ordering Machines)
Citizens, groups, or institutions wishing to register can apply through the Digital Learning Center website (www.디지털배움터.kr) or via the call center (☎ 1800-0096).
No registration is required for visiting digital experience zones.
○ Programs run until December 11, and detailed course schedules and venue information are available online or by phone.
Cho Young-tae, Director General of the Administrative and Autonomy Bureau, stated:
“Busan City is committed to empowering all citizens to fully enjoy the benefits of AI and digital tools by enhancing their digital literacy — from mobile apps to kiosks.
We encourage everyone to take interest and actively participate in this program.”
This content has been translated by AI. Please refer to the attached original Korean version for accuracy if needed.
Translated by AI
Link to Busan press releases in Korean