Students Embark on Voluntary 'Phone-Free 100-Day Challenge'

Starting December 1, the Gyeonggi Office of Education (Superintendent An Min-seok) will operate a 100-day 'Student Challenge: The Miracle of 100 Phone-Free Days' program, enabling all students in schools throughout the province to self-regulate smartphone usage and regain control of their daily lives.

This challenge departs from unilateral restrictions on smartphone use and instead represents an autonomous 'Digital Detox Project' in which school student councils voluntarily plan and the entire educational community practices together. Students establish practical rules tailored to their school circumstances, take on the 100-day challenge, and create change for themselves.

The Gyeonggi Office of Education has directed school student councils to publicly address issues stemming from excessive smartphone use—including sleep deprivation, communication breakdown, and reduced concentration—through discussions and surveys, then establish practical rules and commitments suited to their school environments. In particular, teachers, parents, and the local community will support students' efforts and participate in creating a healthy digital culture.

Participating students will write their 100-day pledge and record their daily practice through early December, gradually developing their own ability to regulate smartphone usage. Additionally, during the time students put down their smartphones, they will gain new experiences and growth opportunities through activities such as 'RAS (Reading, Arts, and Sports),' and will create portfolios documenting these activities to sustain individual growth.

Based on portfolios containing 100 days of practice and reflection, the Gyeonggi Office of Education will select 100 outstanding students. These selected students will be provided with opportunities for overseas exploration during winter break to experience local foreign cultures, encounter the wider world beyond smartphones, and develop global competencies.