South Korea, one of the world’s most digitally saturated nations, has escalated its efforts to combat youth distraction from smartphones.
On August 27, 2025, the National Assembly passed a bill to legally ban the use of mobile phones and digital devices in school classrooms, marking a significant shift from previous informal or school-level restrictions to a nationwide, legislative mandate.
It Was an Existing Practice
Previously, many schools had implemented their own smartphone restrictions during lessons, but these were based on administrative guidance rather than clear legal authority.
The new law now criminalizes device use during class, giving teachers and principals the legal power to manage and enforce rules on device possession and usage.
This formalization responds to inconsistent enforcement and growing concerns over whether existing school rules had sufficient weight.
Scope and Exemptions
The legislation mandates that students must switch off and refrain from using smart devices during class hours. Exceptions, however, are thoughtfully crafted.
Students with disabilities or special educational needs may use assistive devices when necessary, and all students retain access to their phones in designated cases such as emergencies or for educational purposes approved by teachers or principals.
Motivations
South Korea’s decision stems from rising alarm over the negative effects of excessive smartphone use among youth.
Surveys cited by the government show that around 37 percent of middle- and high-school students report that social media significantly affects their daily lives, with 22 percent feeling anxious when unable to access it.
A 2024 study additionally revealed that 43 percent of teenagers considered themselves overly dependent on their phones, far exceeding national averages.
Lawmaker Cho Jung-hun, who sponsored the bill, warned that students were staying up late on social media, suffering sleep deprivation and academic distractions.
Educational and Behavioral Impacts
Supporters of the law argue that it will bolster students’ focus, reduce classroom disruptions, and enhance social interaction. For many teachers and parents, excessive smartphone use has become a barrier to learning and healthy relationships.
The conservative Korean Federation of Teachers’ Association praised the legislation for providing a stronger legal foundation to manage these issues.
It also cited an internal survey where nearly 70 percent of teachers reported classroom disruptions due to smartphones, including confrontations with students during enforcement.
Concerns
Not all stakeholders are in agreement. Some youth advocacy groups and progressive teacher unions argue that the law infringes on students’ digital rights, privacy, and ability to make responsible.
Critics also caution that targeting smartphones may sidestep more systemic problems such as academic pressure, competitiveness, and social stress rooted in South Korea’s education system.
High school students like Seo Min‑joon suggest that the government should first focus on teaching healthy usage habits rather than imposing outright bans.
When Will It Take Effect?
Though the law has already been passed in August 2025, it will come into force in March 2026, aligning with the start of the new academic year.
This delay gives schools, teachers, and students time to adapt, develop enforcement mechanisms, and integrate the rules into daily school life.
A Bold Move in the Digital Era
South Korea’s new law represents one of the first instances globally of a formal, legislative ban on smartphone use in schools.
It speaks to broader anxieties about digital addiction, educational integrity, and mental health among youth in one of the most digitally connected societies.
By establishing legal clarity, prioritizing learning environments, and yet including measured exceptions, the country aims to strike a balance between restriction and accessibility.
However, the law’s real-world effectiveness will depend on how well schools navigate enforcement challenges and engage students in understanding why and how to use technology responsibly.
