The purpose of this study is to find the implications for the activation of learning circles through issues recognized by local government’s lifelong educators while supporting learning circles. Data were collected and analyzed through focus group interviews of lifelong educators in local governments. The results shows that there are five issues: conceptual identity confusion in learning circles, difficulty in systematic support considering the growth stage of learning circles, expectations and burdens for creating association of learning circles, dilemma of subsidy support for learning circles, and negative perception of administrative organizations. These issues suggested that we need to reflect on the existing methods of supporting learning circles and to search new approaches. First, it is necessary to flexibly deal with the possibility that the identity of the group can be transformed from the learning circle to another. Second, based on the needs inside the learning circles, a suitable way of supporting learning circles growth should be designed. Third, methods of supporting the growth of learning circles in various areas and types should be sought, based on the network formed between various local institutions and organizations.

activation of learning circles , learning circle growth , learning circle support issues