24/10/2025
In South Korea, school safety is glowing with innovation as the country begins testing glow-in-the-dark uniforms for students. These high-visibility outfits are designed with reflective fabrics and photoluminescent threads that absorb light during the day and emit a soft glow in dim conditions.
They enhance visibility during early morning or late evening commutes โ times when many students walk or cycle to school under low light.
The uniforms look like standard school attire but are embedded with special fiber strips and reflective patterns that light up when headlights or streetlights hit them.
Some versions use solar-charged or body-heat-activated materials that remain visible for hours without any need for batteries or electricity. The goal is to reduce accidents near school zones, particularly during winter months when sunrise comes late and dusk arrives early.
The pilot program includes elementary and middle schools in suburban areas, where children often travel longer distances on foot. Teachers and parents report improved visibility from passing vehicles, and students enjoy the futuristic look and safety boost.
This initiative aligns with South Koreaโs broader Smart Safety School policy, which blends wearable tech and urban design to protect students in daily transit. If successful, the uniforms may be adopted nationwide and paired with smart crosswalks or sensor-based traffic lights.
Itโs a forward-thinking example of how even fabric can play a role in urban safety and education reform.