South Korean university students’ living-cost loans rose 32.8% to 850.6 billion won in 2025 from 640.67 billion won in 2023, while the number of loans increased to 457,129 from 432,171. Loans to recipients of basic livelihood assistance, near-poverty households and students in the lowest three income categories rose 33.9% to 363.47 billion won. The loans carry an annual interest rate of 1.7%, with repayment beginning after borrowers start earning income. Delinquent borrowers rose 29.8% to 8,101 and overdue balances climbed 31.1% to 38.69 billion won. The Korea Student Aid Foundation said most of 44,818 surveyed recipients used the funds for expenses including food and transportation. Rising rents, which increased about 8% over the past year in major Seoul university neighborhoods, and inflation are adding to financial pressure. Rep. Kang Kyung-sook called for more detailed assessments of borrowers’ finances and broader support, including debt adjustment and tailored financial assistance.