Korea's System of Adult Higher Education in the Global Context: A Comparative Study of Japan, Germany, and the United Kingdom

Korea’s higher education system is undergoing structural pressure due to rapid demographic shifts, including a declining birthrate and population aging. In response, the government launched the Lifelong Education System Support Program (LiFE) to increase access for adult learners. However, the LiFE model remains insufficiently studied in global comparative contexts. This paper analyzes the structural characteristics of Korea’s adult higher education system through a comparative study of Japan, Germany, and the United Kingdom. It examines variations in national policy orientation, learner motivation, access mechanisms, and cultural inclusiveness. Using qualitative case-based analysis, this study draws on Lima and Guimarães’ adult education policy models and the concept of national habitus to understand cross-national differences. The findings indicate that Korea’s LiFE system represents a transitional framework that blends elements of both state-driven and market-oriented approaches. Despite its innovation, it struggles with limited institutional reach, low regional equity, and insufficient responsiveness to adult learners’ emotional and social contexts. In contrast, Japan and Germany offer more integrated and inclusive models through community-based institutions or qualification-linked pathways. The study concludes that Korea must develop a hybrid model of adult higher education that promotes regional collaboration, cultural flexibility, and long-term social integration through accessible lifelong learning opportunities.