Starting March 2026, South Korea will officially ban the use of mobile phones and smart devices during school hours, following the passage of a new law aimed at curbing smartphone addiction among students. The bill, which passed with 115 votes out of 163, reflects growing concern among lawmakers, parents, and teachers about the negative impact of excessive phone use on academic performance and student well-being.

While many South Korean schools already have informal phone bans, this move makes the restriction legally binding—placing South Korea among the few countries to pass such a law nationwide. Other nations like France, Finland, and China have implemented similar restrictions, but often only in specific age groups or school levels.

The decision comes amid troubling statistics: a 2024 government survey found that 43% of South Koreans aged 10–19 are overly dependent on their phones, with many struggling to control time spent on social media. Parents are increasingly worried that phones are not only affecting learning but also hindering social development and exposing children to online bullying.

Despite broad support, some students and skeptics question how the ban will be enforced and whether it addresses the deeper issue of digital dependency. Nonetheless, the law marks a strong step toward promoting healthier tech habits in one of the world’s most connected societies.