SEOUL: South Korean schools are facing growing challenges in meeting the dietary needs of students from migrant backgrounds, particularly those requiring halal meals for religious reasons, according to
The Korea Herald.
A recent study found that language barriers and limited cultural understanding had left some students eating only rice or skipping lunch because they were unable to explain their dietary requirements.
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The researchers said school dietitians also faced difficulties in preparing alternative meals due to limited support, increased workloads and concerns over hygiene and kitchen operations.
While some Korean students viewed the provision of special meals as "reverse discrimination", other schools reported greater understanding through continued communication and menu adjustments.
The researchers called on education authorities to introduce standard guidelines that accommodate religious and cultural dietary needs, expand multicultural meal options and strengthen communication with families through multilingual support.
