The ban, which will take effect from March next year, makes South Korea the latest country to restrict the use of smartphones and social media among minors.

It is the latest country to restrict phone use among children and teens.

CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea — With a new school year only days away, about 30 homeschooled children took over a corner of the massive Collier Community Fitness Center here recently for their own back-to-school event.