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.

From next month, South Korea will apply strengthened identity verification, including facial recognition, when consumers open a new mobile phone line or switch carriers through mobile operators and MVNOs. The Ministry of Science and ICT announced a comprehensive plan to prevent fraudulent phone use, including measures targeting identity theft, misuse of corporate names and tougher sanctions on carriers and retailers caught enabling illegal activations. It will also expand subscription-blocking services and tighten controls on foreign and corporate phone lines.