State SME agency to offer free AI, language training to 1,000 enrolled workers

The Korea SMEs and Startups Agency will provide free AI, foreign language and job-skills training to workers enrolled in its performance-based savings programs, aiming to strengthen their professional capabilities and encourage long-term employment at small and medium-sized enterprises.

The agency announced Tuesday it is now accepting applications for its integrated 2026 education program, "Naeil Chaeum Baeum Chaeum," designed to support the career development and skill-building of workers enrolled in its performance-reward savings schemes.

The program is open to 1,000 workers who are actively maintaining enrollment in either the Naeil Chaeum Gongje, a performance-based long-term savings plan for SME workers, or the SME employee preferential savings plan. Applications are accepted from Tuesday through July 14 on a first-come, first-served basis via the Naeil Chaeum Gongje website.

This year's curriculum reflects growing demand for digital competency and workplace safety at small businesses. The agency has added two new courses: hands-on AI training sessions and mandatory legal education, including industrial health and safety instruction.

Through the AI practicum, participating workers can build skills to apply the latest technology in their day-to-day work. Small businesses, meanwhile, are expected to benefit from reduced training costs and administrative burdens by having required legal education covered through the program.

All courses are free of charge. Each participant may choose up to three courses from offerings that include special lectures by prominent figures in economics and emerging technology, foreign language classes, correspondence reading programs and microlearning modules.