US EditionSouth Korea to ban mobile phones in school classrooms
The new law targets smartphone addiction affecting 43% of teenagers and aims to enhance academic focus by banning device use during class hours, with exemptions for disabilities and emergencies.
- South Korea passed a bipartisan bill banning smartphone and smart device use during class hours in schools, effective March 2026.
- The ban responds to a 2024 government survey showing nearly a quarter of the 51 million population overuse phones, with 43% of youths affected.
- Parents, teachers, and lawmakers support the ban to improve academic focus and address smartphone addiction, while some students and teachers question its effectiveness and rights impact.
- The bill passed with 115 of 163 members in favor and grants teachers authority to restrict phone use on school grounds during class hours.
- This law places South Korea among countries restricting phones in schools, though critics say phone use outside class and lack of education on healthy habits limit its impact.
97 Articles
97 Articles
New Strait Times
South Korea bans mobile phones in classrooms
Your browser does not support the audio element.
Smartphones, digital devices to be banned in school classrooms next March
The National Assembly has approved a revised bill to restrict students from using smartphones and other digital devices in classrooms starting next school year, officials said Thursday, amid concerns over the potentially harmful effects posed by the devices. Under the revised Elementary and Secondary Education Act passed Wednesday, elementary, middle and high school students will not be allowed to use smartphones and other similar devices during…
The mobile phone use of children is leading discussions around the world. South Korea has now adopted a nationwide law – and tightens the rules.
South Korea bans smartphones in all middle and elementary school classrooms
South Korean lawmakers have banned smartphones and other smart devices in elementary and middle school classrooms, The New York Times reports. The law goes into effect in 2026. The legislation only outlaws these devices during class hours and there are no stipulations regarding punishment for violators. The law does, however, give principals and teachers the power to stop students from carrying or using a phone on school grounds. Additionally, s…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 44% of the sources lean Right
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
