Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) will introduce a childcare leave system for undergraduate and graduate students from this semester to encourage childbirth and alleviate childcare burdens in response to low birthrates.

JBNU is in the final stages of amending its academic regulations to establish a leave-of-absence system for pregnancy, childbirth and childcare.

Accordingly, JBNU students may take 'Pregnancy, Childbirth and Childcare Leave' for up to a total of two years. This leave period is not counted toward the standard leave of absence period.

Applicants are required to submit a certificate confirming pregnancy or childbirth, a family relationship certificate, and other relevant documents.

An official from the Academic Affairs Office said, "This system is designed to benefit undergraduate and graduate students who would otherwise have to abandon their studies due to childbirth and childcare, and to encourage childbirth and alleviate childcare burdens," adding, "JBNU will continue to strive to establish various institutional measures to enhance students' rights and interests."