SEOUL — Starting July 6, South Koreans will be required to undergo a facial recognition verification process when activating a new mobile phone. The South Korean government announced this measure as part of a comprehensive strategy to curb the rising tide of illicit phone activations, including identity theft, unauthorized rentals, and the abuse of corporate-registered devices.

The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) unveiled the "Comprehensive Measures to Prevent Illicit Use of Mobile Phones" on June 30. This initiative serves as a follow-up to the government-wide crackdown on voice phishing that has been in effect since last year. As mobile phones have evolved from simple communication tools into essential gateways for financial transactions and personal authentication, the government has shifted its focus toward preventing fraud at the source and strengthening post-incident sanctions.

Addressing the Surge in Illicit Devices

According to government data, there were approximately 20,000 cases of "daepo-phones" (illicitly registered burner phones) detected last year, with voice phishing damages totaling 1.3 trillion won. While these numbers have shown a downward trend since the government’s comprehensive anti-phishing campaign began last October, the advancement of forgery technology and increased exposure of personal information have made it easier for criminals to exploit others' identities.

Phased Implementation of Facial Recognition

The government conducted a pilot program for facial recognition from December last year through June. During this period, the system was tested across all channels—both offline and online—of the three major mobile carriers and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs).

To minimize inconvenience and ensure a smooth transition, the government will implement the system in phases starting July 6, ahead of complete legal formalization. During the initial phase, users will be required to complete the facial recognition process at least once if they opt to use it. For those who fail the biometric check, a "conditional activation" system will be in place, allowing activation if identity can be confirmed through alternative means, with all procedures strictly logged.

Alternatives to facial recognition will remain available indefinitely. For those without smartphones, such as first-time users or those who have lost their devices, confirmation via a resident registration abstract issued on the same day will be accepted. Furthermore, users who opt out of facial recognition for personal reasons can verify their identity using mobile government-issued ID apps.

"Facial recognition is a powerful tool, but it is not infallible," said Choi Woo-hyuk, head of the MSIT’s Information Protection and Network Policy Office. "Factors such as outdated ID photos or changes in facial structure mean that alternative authentication methods must remain in parallel."

A Multi-Layered Security Strategy

The rollout will be incremental. Starting July 6, facial recognition will be applied to all channels of major carriers, with priority given to new activations and number portability. By August, the government plans to refine its multi-factor authentication system by benchmarking financial institutions' non-face-to-face identity verification processes.

By September, the system will be linked with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety to verify the authenticity of resident registration documents. October will mark a significant tightening of regulations, including a "One-Strike-Out" policy for telecom companies involved in illicit activations, and the completion of the amendment to the Telecommunications Business Act.

In November, a "Subscription Restriction Service"—which previously required proactive sign-ups—will become a default feature, allowing users to block unauthorized activations by default. Stringent measures against corporate phone abuse, such as a "multi-line volume control system" (limiting activations to four lines within 180 days), will also be enforced to prevent mass-registration fraud.

Stricter Enforcement and Future Outlook

The government is also intensifying crackdowns on errant retailers and carriers. Several companies have already faced business suspension or registration cancellation procedures following joint inspections by the Ministry, the Korea Communications Commission, and the National Police Agency.

"As mobile phones have become the primary tools for various civil crimes, strengthening identity verification is the most effective preventative measure," Choi added. "We will do our utmost to protect the public’s assets and identities through continuous cooperation with relevant agencies and active public awareness campaigns."