South Korea bans phones in classrooms from March 2026 to improve learning focus and reduce social media use among students

South Korea bans phones in classrooms, marking a decisive national shift to curb digital distractions and promote learning in schools.

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On Wednesday, the National Assembly approved legislation prohibiting smartphones and other smart devices in classrooms during lessons.

The law, announced Thursday by the Education Ministry, will take effect in March 2026, allowing limited exceptions for educational use or students with special needs.

The Education Ministry emphasized the policy is designed to “protect students’ right to learn” and help teachers maintain discipline and engagement during school hours.

For years, the debate over mobile phone restrictions in schools stirred controversy over personal freedom.

However, recent findings from South Korea’s National Human Rights Commission backed the bill, noting the negative impacts of smartphones on students’ learning and emotional health justify the restrictions.

Despite this, critics like the left-leaning Jinbo Party claim the ban may infringe on students’ digital rights, arguing that schools should instead focus on teaching responsible smartphone use rather than outright bans.

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With this move, South Korea joins countries such as Australia and the Netherlands, which have introduced similar laws to regulate mobile phone use in school settings.