South Korea’s science ministry is introducing face authentication in the mobile phone sign-up process from July 6 across major carriers and budget operators, while allowing users to choose alternative verification from the start. The ministry said the opt-out reflects recommendations from privacy and human rights bodies, but it plans to monitor dealers to prevent intentional bypassing. Critics question whether the policy can curb illicit phone lines if it is optional.

South Korea is pushing a cross-government package to respond to teen suicides, strengthening mental health support in and out of schools, managing harmful online information and expanding links to counseling and treatment. The Education Ministry said teen suicide deaths rose to 396 in 2025 from 273 in 2016, while psychiatric visits among those aged 0 to 19 increased to an estimated 431,000 in 2025. The plan sets targets to cut suicide rates by 2030 and 2035.