Mandatory Face Verification for Mobile Phone Activation in Korea｜How It Stops Voice Phishing & Illegal Phones

Korea has officially introduced mandatory face verification for new mobile phone activations and number transfers. The previous system—where a phone could be opened with just an ID—has changed, strengthening protections against voice phishing, identity theft, and illegal burner phones.

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Why Face Verification Was Introduced｜The Reality of Phone Fraud

By November this year, voice phishing losses in Korea exceeded KRW 1.1 trillion. A key tool behind these crimes is the illegal or borrowed phone (so-called “ghost phone”).

Criminals exploited a loophole that allowed phone activation using stolen IDs or borrowed names. To close this gap, the government now requires ID verification combined with real-time facial matching to confirm the actual owner.

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Face Verification Timeline｜At a Glance

• Pilot phase: From December 23 (MVNO online activations & in-store activations)
• Full implementation: From March 23 next year
• Applies to: New activations, number transfers, device changes, ownership changes

If you frequently use online MVNO (budget carrier) plans, be aware that the activation process will change.

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Do You Need the PASS App?｜Activation Checklist

Face verification is provided through the major carriers’ PASS authentication system, but you can still complete verification without installing the PASS app.

Practical preparation tips before activation

• ✔ Prepare a physical ID (Korean ID card or driver’s license)
• ✔ Make sure your phone camera works properly
• ✔ Complete verification in a well-lit environment
• ✔ Remove masks, hats, or sunglasses

This is especially important if you plan to change MVNO plans, activate an unlocked phone, or register a used phone, as failed verification can delay activation.

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Is My Biometric Data Stored?

No. According to the government, facial biometric data is not stored. The system only checks whether the ID photo matches the live face scan, then saves the verification result only.

No facial images, videos, or biometric profiles are retained, minimizing the risk of data leaks.

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What If Face Verification Fails?

During the three-month pilot period, exceptions are allowed to reduce inconvenience.

• ✔ Retry verification with staff guidance
• ✔ Switch to in-store activation at a carrier shop
• ✔ Reissue your ID if it is damaged or unreadable

After full enforcement begins, exceptions may be limited. If your activation is urgent, using the pilot period is the most realistic strategy.

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Key Takeaways for Consumers

This policy is not just an extra step—it is a structural change aimed at preventing voice phishing, smishing, and identity theft.

If you are comparing mobile plan prices, MVNO subscriptions, or unlocked phone activations, be sure to factor in the face verification step when planning your timeline.

While slightly inconvenient, it serves as a critical safety measure that significantly reduces the risk of financial fraud and illegal phone misuse.

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Quick Summary
✔ Face verification is now mandatory for mobile activation in Korea
✔ Designed to block voice phishing and illegal burner phones
✔ PASS app is optional
✔ No biometric data is stored
✔ Using the pilot period is the most practical approach