South Korea Bans Mobile Phones in Classrooms

South Korea’s parliament has passed a landmark bill banning the use of mobile phones and digital devices in school classrooms across the nation, set to take effect in March 2026, aligning with the start of the new academic year.

This move is a formal escalation to curb excessive social media use among students, according to Reuters.

Why It Matters

• Escalating concerns over screen addiction: A recent Education Ministry survey revealed that approximately 37% of middle- and high-school students report that social media disrupts their daily lives, while 22% experience anxiety when disconnected from their accounts.
• Smartphone saturation: South Korea stands out globally in digital connectivity, with 99% of citizens online and 98% owning a smartphone, the highest among 27 countries surveyed by Pew Research Center.
• Bipartisan lawmaking: Receiving wide parliamentary support, the legislation reflects a unified commitment to tackling a growing digital-age challenge.
• Exceptions included: Devices may still be used by students with disabilities or for pedagogical purposes, offering flexibility for inclusion and accessibility.
• Global trend alignment: South Korea joins a growing number of countries, like Australia and the Netherlands, in imposing restrictions to protect students from the adverse effects of digital overload.

Potential Impacts

The ban on use of mobile phones in classroom signals a shift toward restoring focus and mental well-being in classrooms, aiming to reduce distractions and foster healthier social interaction.

While many schools in South Korea already enforce smartphone limits, this legislation standardizes those practices across all institutions.

However, youth advocates have voiced concerns about potential infringements on students’ rights and autonomy.

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