South Korea has decided to stop students from using mobile phones in classrooms. The country joins other nations trying to reduce social media use among children and teenagers.

The National Assembly passed the bill on Wednesday, and it will begin in March next year. Students will not be allowed to use smartphones or similar devices in class unless it is for learning or to help those with special needs.

The Education Ministry said the law is meant to help students focus on their lessons and assist teachers in keeping classrooms free from distractions.

Lawmakers admitted the topic has been debated for years because of human rights concerns, but the National Human Rights Commission found that the negative effects of smartphones on learning and mental health make the ban reasonable.

Some groups, like the left-leaning Jinbo Party, disagree, saying the law could limit students’ digital rights and stop them from learning to use online tools responsibly.

This decision puts South Korea alongside countries such as Australia and the Netherlands, which also have strict rules on mobile phone use in schools.