South Korea imposes nationwide classroom mobile phone ban
South Korea will ban phones and smart devices in classrooms from March 2026 to address smartphone addiction and improve focus.
South Korea’s new law bars the use of mobile phones and smart devices during class hours in all schools nationwide starting March 2026. The bipartisan initiative aims to tackle smartphone addiction and safeguard students’ academic performance and well-being.
Rising Concern Over Smartphone Dependence
Recent government data shows that nearly 43% of South Koreans aged 10 to 19 are overly reliant on their phones, with many admitting difficulties controlling their screen time. Parents and educators warn that constant scrolling and social media use disrupt learning and peer interaction.
“Phones distract students from studying, building friendships and participating in activities,” says Choi Eun-young, whose 14-year-old daughter attends a Seoul school.
Legal Framework and Exemptions
Under the law, teachers can confiscate devices on school grounds and schools must teach proper digital device use. Exemptions apply for students with special educational needs, educational purposes, and emergencies.
Mixed Reactions From Educators and Students
The conservative Korean Federation of Teachers’ Association supports the ban, citing survey results that 70% of teachers report classroom disruptions due to phones. However, the Korean Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union has not taken an official stance, with some members concerned it infringes on students’ rights to communication.
High school student Seo Min-joon argues that simply banning phones during class does little to address broader usage habits outside school. “True change requires education on healthy device use, not just confiscation,” he says.
By legally enforcing a phone ban in classrooms, South Korea seeks to reduce distractions, curb smartphone addiction and boost students’ concentration and social engagement.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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