Is South Korea Implementing Mandatory Face Recognition for Mobile Number Registration?
Synopsis
As South Korea embarks on a groundbreaking trial requiring real-time face recognition for new mobile number registrations, the government takes measures to combat scams linked to illegally registered accounts. This bold move raises questions about privacy and security while aiming to protect consumers.
Key Takeaways
Mandatory face recognition will be required for new mobile number registrations.
The initiative aims to curb scams using illegally registered accounts.
Facial data will not be stored , ensuring privacy.
Mobile carriers must inform users about fraud risks .
The policy is set to officially launch in March .
Seoul, Dec 23 (NationPress) On Tuesday, South Korea initiated a trial for a new regulation mandating individuals to undergo real-time face recognition when acquiring a new mobile phone number. This initiative aims to combat scam operations utilizing illegally registered accounts.
The three major mobile carriers in the country—SK Telecom Co., KT Corp., and LG Uplus—along with mobile virtual network operators, must adhere to this procedure in both in-person and remote environments under this new policy, which is projected to be officially launched in March.
As part of this protocol, applicants will need to utilize the PASS app, an identification tool developed by the three mobile carriers and commonly employed by public organizations, to scan their faces, according to the Yonhap news agency.
In response to concerns regarding the collection of biometric data, the government assured that the process solely verifies if the applicant's actual face corresponds with the images on their identification cards and that this data will not be retained.
Additionally, the government is set to amend legislation to require mobile carriers to inform users about the risks associated with crimes linked to illegally registered phones. They will also need to monitor new subscriptions to mitigate fraudulent activities by their retailers.
Meanwhile, South Korean stocks opened positively on Tuesday, reflecting a rise in Wall Street, driven by a rebound in technology shares.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) gained 19.53 points, or 0.48 percent, within the first 15 minutes of trading.
In the previous session, major U.S. indexes maintained bullish momentum led by technology stocks, bolstering optimism for a year-end Santa Claus rally. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed 0.47 percent higher, while the tech-focused Nasdaq composite rose by 0.52 percent, and the S&P 500 increased by 0.64 percent.
In Seoul, tech giant Samsung Electronics rose by 0.81 percent, while its competitor in chipmaking, SK hynix, advanced by 1.72 percent.
Point of View
We support the government's initiative to enhance consumer protection against fraud. However, it's crucial to balance security measures with individual privacy rights. Ongoing dialogue and transparency will be essential as this policy is rolled out.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new face recognition policy in South Korea?
The new policy mandates real-time face recognition for individuals registering new mobile phone numbers to combat scams.
How will the process work?
Applicants will use the PASS app developed by mobile carriers to scan their faces, verifying their identity.
What privacy measures are in place?
The government assures that biometric data will not be stored and only facial recognition against ID photos will occur.
When will the policy be fully implemented?
The official launch of this policy is set for March.
Are there risks associated with this policy?
The government plans to inform users about potential risks linked to crimes involving illegally registered phones.
