South Korea has enacted a bill prohibiting the use of mobile phones and smart devices in schools during class hours, set to take effect in March 2026. This legislation is part of a bipartisan initiative aimed at addressing concerns over smartphone addiction among children and teenagers. Research has increasingly highlighted potential negative impacts on academic performance and study time related to excessive smartphone use.
The recent vote resulted in 115 members in favor out of 163 present. Many schools in South Korea have already implemented phone restrictions, though South Korea is one of the few countries to formally legislate such a ban. Other countries, including Finland and France, have introduced similar restrictions, with varying degrees of implementation based on educational level.
The bill aims to empower teachers to enforce the prohibition not only during class but also within school premises. However, it includes exceptions for students with disabilities or those needing to use phones for educational purposes. Lawmaker Cho Jung-hun, who sponsored the bill, referenced scientific findings linking smartphone dependency to adverse effects on student development.
While the law enjoys support from some educators, concerns persist. A conservative teachers’ association has reported that nearly 70% of their members have experienced disruptions in class caused by smartphone use. Conversely, the Korean Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union expressed unease about potential violations of students’ rights related to smartphone access.
Critics, including students, question the effectiveness of the ban. Many argue that simply restricting phone usage in schools does not address underlying issues of smartphone addiction or the high-stress environment driven by South Korea’s competitive educational culture, particularly concerning the rigorous college entrance exam known as Suneung. Students feel that the focus should be on fostering healthy smartphone use rather than outright confiscation during school hours.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c776ye6lrvzo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss