South Korea has announced a nationwide ban on mobile phones and digital devices in classrooms starting in 2024, aiming to curb distractions and improve academic performance. The policy will first roll out as a pilot program in select schools before expanding to all K-12 institutions by 2025.
Education Minister Lee Ju-ho emphasized the need to address growing concerns about smartphone addiction among youth, with studies showing South Korean teens spend an average of 6 hours daily on digital devices. "This measure will help students reclaim their attention spans and foster deeper engagement with learning," Lee stated during a press briefing in Seoul.
The decision comes as Asian education systems face increasing scrutiny over balancing technology integration with traditional learning methods. While the Chinese mainland maintains strict classroom device policies, Taiwan region schools have adopted more flexible approaches based on grade levels.
Parents and educators remain divided on the ban. "My child uses educational apps for homework – this feels like a step backward," said Seoul resident Kim Min-ji, while mathematics teacher Park Ji-young countered: "Students are more present during lessons since we started locking phones at classroom doors."
Analysts suggest this policy could influence regional education trends, particularly as APEC members share best practices on digital literacy. The ban exempts students with special medical needs and allows device use during lunch breaks.
