South Korea bans smartphones during class

Amid growing concerns about the negative impact of smartphones on learning and mental health, South Korea has officially passed a ban on phone use during school hours, effective from March 2026.

A bill to ban smartphones in classrooms was passed by the South Korean National Assembly with the support of both major parties, showing the level of social consensus on the situation described as the "screen generation crisis".

The government said the measure was a direct response to survey data showing that more than a third of teenagers spend most of their time surfing social media videos instead of studying or engaging in social activities.

A 2024 national survey also found that, out of a total population of 51 million, the majority admitted to using their phones “more than necessary.” More than a third of South Korean teenagers admitted to having difficulty controlling their time on social media.

Mobile device addiction is widespread among children and adults alike, raising concerns about mental health, concentration and productivity. Most parents and many teachers have expressed support for the new law, saying smartphones erode students’ ability to concentrate and hinder the development of social skills.

Teachers say the constant presence of smartphones in the classroom leads to distraction, poor academic performance and increased tension in peer relationships. Many hope the ban will restore a more focused and balanced learning environment.

However, the ban has also been controversial. The Korean Federation of Teachers and Educational Workers has expressed skepticism, saying the law could deprive students of the right to use technology, which is an important part of modern life.

“In reality, students have few places to meet friends other than school and cram school. They often maintain social connections through KakaoTalk or Instagram. A complete ban could make them feel isolated,” said Cho Young-sun, a teacher at a high school in Seoul.

Some students also objected, saying that smartphones are not only a means of entertainment but also a means of studying and emergency communication with family.

South Korea is not the first country to ban phones in schools. In Europe, France and Finland have implemented limited bans, mainly for younger students, while Italy, the Netherlands and China have taken more drastic measures, banning smartphones from entire school campuses.

South Korea’s move to ban the practice reflects global concerns about the negative impact of technology on young people, but the question remains how flexibly the law will be enforced and whether there will be exceptions for online learning or emergencies.

“Children today cannot take their eyes off their phones,” said Choi Eun-young, mother of a 14-year-old student in Seoul. “When they go to school, they not only learn knowledge but also build friendships and participate in group activities. But they are so caught up in their phones that they miss out on important experiences.”

According to Firstpost

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