Schools in South Korea and the U.S. restrict digital device use

Educational institutions in South Korea and the United States are implementing stricter regulations on digital device usage to address concerns regarding student mental health and academic distraction.

In South Korea, a revision to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act effective March 2026 bans the use of mobile phones and smart devices during instructional hours. Schools may also implement full-day bans covering recess and lunch. This legislative move follows data showing that 42.6 percent of South Korean adolescents are at risk for smartphone overdependence.

In the United States, school districts in the Washington, D.C. area are re-evaluating classroom technology. Montgomery County is moving away from heavy reliance on technology for elementary students, prioritizing paper and pencils. Loudoun County is piloting programs to determine if one-to-one device assignments are necessary for younger students, while also restricting access to platforms like YouTube and Gmail for older grades. Prince George’s County is also implementing tech-free periods during the school day.