New device activation rules in South Korea
South Korea will introduce new rules for activating mobile devices starting December 23, 2025, which will require facial recognition procedures for all new users. This innovation will be mandatory for everyone connecting to mobile networks and aims to enhance the security of smartphone usage.
It is noteworthy that each user is required to undergo facial recognition during the initial setup of their smartphone. For authentication, users will need to use a special app called PASS. This new rule is already in effect for subscribers of major telecommunications operators, such as:
- SK Telecom
- KT
- LG Uplus
- Budget virtual providers
Implementation timelines and data security
Moreover, by March 23, 2026, all participants in the telecommunications market must join the new system. It is important to note that digital facial images are not stored in databases permanently. Biometric data is used only for one-time identity verification during device activation, which, according to experts, is expected to reduce the risks of unauthorized access to users' personal information.
The introduction of new mobile device activation rules in South Korea reflects the increasing attention to security issues in the digital age.
With these new requirements, the country aims to provide greater protection for users' personal information and reduce the number of unauthorized access incidents to smartphones. This could also serve as an example for other countries considering similar initiatives to enhance security in their telecommunications systems.