Korea's media watchdog floats possible social media ban for children under 14

South Korea's media watchdog is considering restricting children aged 14 and under from creating social media accounts. The proposal aims to reduce excessive social media use among young people.

Officials also want to limit algorithms and app designs that encourage teenagers aged 14 to 19 to spend too much time on social media. They believe excessive use has become a global concern.

The chairman of the Korea Media and Communications Commission said several related bills have already been proposed in the National Assembly. However, he stressed that the issue should be handled carefully.

He referred to South Korea's former Shutdown Law, which banned children under 16 from playing online games late at night. The law was later abolished because many people believed it limited personal freedom.

Other countries are taking similar action. Australia has banned children under 16 from having social media accounts, and the European Union is also preparing new laws to limit children's access to social media.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source : https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/20260716/koreas-media-watchdog-floats-possible-social-media-ban-for-children-under-14

Comprehension

What age group could be banned from creating social media accounts in South Korea?
Why does the government want to introduce this restriction?
What is the purpose of limiting social media algorithms for teenagers?
What happened to South Korea's Shutdown Law?
Which other countries are introducing similar social media restrictions?

Discussion

At what age should children be allowed to use social media?
What are the advantages of social media for teenagers?
What are the dangers of spending too much time on social media?
Do parents or governments have more responsibility for children's online safety?
Should schools teach students how to use social media responsibly? Why?
How much time do you think teenagers should spend on social media each day?
Would banning social media improve teenagers' mental health? Why or why not?
What other ways can governments protect children online?

Vocabulary

watchdog – an organization that monitors and regulates an industry
restrict – to limit or control something
algorithm – a computer system that decides what content users see
excessive – too much; more than necessary
legislation – laws made by the government
proposal – a plan or suggestion for consideration
infringe – to violate or limit someone's rights
scrapped – canceled or officially ended