The number of South Korean students in China has decreased by 78.3% since 2017, according to data from South Korea’s education ministry. This year’s count also reflects a 6.5% decline from the previous year, highlighting a continuing downward trend.

In terms of global study destinations, the preference among South Korean students is shifting. Currently, 12.9% of all South Korean students abroad are in China, down 0.7% from last year and the lowest proportion since 2004. The U.S. remains the top choice, constituting 33.1% of the total abroad. China now holds the second spot, followed by Japan. However, the difference in numbers between South Korean students choosing China over Japan is decreasing.