A country has legislated to ban mobile phones in schools. This nation, where 99% of people are constantly online, faces declining mental and physical health, affecting schoolchildren too.
According to a report by The Independent, South Korea has passed a bill to restrict the use of mobile phones and other digital devices in schools across the country.
The Law Takes Effect Next Year
This restriction was enacted through a bill on Wednesday and will become effective in March next year. A study in July found that Australia has recently extended its social media ban for teenagers, while restricting mobile phones in Dutch schools has improved student concentration.
99% of People Are Always Online Here
Surveys reveal that South Korea is among the world's most digitally connected countries. Here, 99% of the population is online, and 98% own a smartphone. This is the highest rate among the 27 countries surveyed by the US-based Pew Research Center in 2022 and 2023.
The bill banning mobile use received bipartisan support in Wednesday's parliamentary vote. Opposition People's Power Party MP and bill sponsor Cho Jung-hoon said that our youths' social media addiction has reached a critical level. Cho told Parliament that our children's eyes are red every morning, having been on Instagram until 2 or 3 AM.
Schoolchildren Are Active on Social Media All Night Long
A survey by the Ministry of Education last year found that about 37% of middle and high school students say social media affects their daily life, while 22% feel anxious when unable to access their social media accounts.
Many South Korean schools have already implemented smartphone bans, now formalized by the new bill. However, digital devices will still be allowed for students with disabilities or educational purposes. Some youth groups have protested against the ban, arguing it violates children's human rights.
Similar Bans Imposed in Other Countries
In November last year, Australia enacted the world's first ban restricting social media access for those under 16. Denmark is also planning to ban mobile phones in schools and after-school clubs, while South Korea has also banned mobile phones and digital devices in classrooms nationwide starting March 2026.
