South Korea Plans Nationwide Classroom Smartphone Ban from 2026

South Korea has passed a nationwide law banning the use of smartphones and other digital devices in elementary and middle school classrooms starting in March 2026, aiming to combat smartphone addiction and its negative effects on students' learning and mental health. The legislation, supported by bipartisan parliamentary vote, permits exceptions for educational use, emergencies, and students with disabilities, while empowering teachers and principals to control phone use on school grounds. This move follows concerns highlighted by government surveys showing nearly a quarter of the population struggles to control smartphone use, with this figure rising to 43 percent among children and teens. The ban aligns South Korea with other countries, such as France, Finland, Italy, the Netherlands, and China, which have implemented similar restrictions, as well as 14 U.S. states that regulate smartphone use during school hours. Advocates argue the ban will improve focus and reduce classroom disruptions, while opponents cite concerns over infringement of students' rights and freedoms. The law also mandates schools to educate students on responsible technology use to mitigate addiction and protect their well-being.