South Korea considers age limits and algorithm restrictions for youth SNS use

The Korea Communications Commission (KCC) is reviewing measures to regulate social media use among minors to combat excessive dependency and addiction. Proposed changes to the Information and Communications Network Act include prohibiting users under the age of 14 from joining social media platforms, with exceptions potentially allowed through parental consent. The government also plans to mandate age verification for users.

Beyond age limits, the KCC is examining restrictions on specific platform features for users aged 14 to 19. These include disabling personalized recommendation algorithms, infinite scrolling, and autoplay functions by default, as these features are believed to encourage compulsive usage.

While previous policies focused on blocking harmful content, this new approach targets the structural design of platforms. The KCC aims to finalize a response plan by the first half of next year, following consultations with relevant ministries and stakeholders to ensure regulations do not infringe upon the fundamental rights of youth or limit access to educational and cultural content.