South Korea has officially passed a law banning the use of mobile phones and other smart devices inside classrooms across the country, starting in March next year. Officials confirmed the move on Thursday, making South Korea one of several nations taking steps to reduce social media dependency among young people.
The bill, approved by lawmakers on Wednesday, prohibits the use of mobile phones in school classrooms nationwide, except for students with disabilities or those who require the devices for educational purposes.
According to Seoul’s Education Ministry, the measure provides a legal foundation to “restrict the possession and use of such devices to protect students’ right to learn and support teachers’ activities.”
Concerns Over Smartphone Addiction
South Korea, often ranked as one of the world’s most digitally connected societies, has been grappling with concerns about excessive smartphone use among students. Lawmakers argue the ban is necessary to address growing cases of smartphone addiction, which experts warn can negatively affect academic performance and emotional health.
Cho Jung-hun, a member of the opposition People Power Party who introduced the bill, noted that the debate had long been “contentious amid concerns over human rights violations.” However, the country’s National Human Rights Commission recently shifted its stance, acknowledging that limits on device usage in classrooms do not infringe on rights when weighed against their harmful effects on learning and well-being.
“The law was needed to ease social conflict by clearly defining rules on smart device use in schools,” lawmakers explained in a document introducing the bill.
Mixed Reactions from Advocacy Groups
While some welcome the law as a step toward healthier classroom environments, critics argue it goes too far. The left-wing Jinbo Party voiced opposition, insisting the measure will “infringe on students’ digital rights and right to education.”
In its statement, the party added: “The law prevents adolescents from learning to make responsible decisions on their own and deprives them of opportunities to adapt to the digital environment.”
Following Global Trends
South Korea now joins countries such as Australia and the Netherlands, which have introduced similar restrictions to combat social media use in schools. Education experts believe such policies may become more common worldwide as governments search for ways to balance digital literacy with student well-being.
