Digital Literacy and AI Textbooks: South Korea’s Approach and Its Relevance for Germany

Abstract This article analyses the digital transformation of the education system in South Korea, with a particular focus on government control mechanisms, the systematic development of digital literacy and the introduction of AI-supported teaching and learning media. Based on an analysis of educational structures and centralised governance, it shows how South Korea has achieved comprehensive digitisation of its education system through long-term strategies, binding implementation requirements and the gradual integration of digital learning infrastructures. A particular focus is placed on so-called AI textbooks, which, as an intelligent teaching and learning management system, enable individualised, adaptive and data-supported learning. Methodologically, the article is based on a comprehensive evaluation of policy documents from Korean ministries, scientific studies, media reports, teaching and learning materials, and expert interviews. Finally, success factors, challenges and examples of good practice in the Korean digitisation strategy are identified and discussed with regard to their transferability to the German education system—particularly in relation to teacher training, governance and the implementation of digital literacy.