SEOUL – For years, South Korean teenagers have preferred to exchange social media accounts rather than phone numbers when meeting someone new. Now, fresh data has confirmed just how widespread this shift has become.

A recent survey involving 3,729 Korean teens aged 14 to 18, revealed that 70.3 per cent of respondents shared social media handles as their preferred way to stay in touch. In contrast, 57.5 per cent exchanged phone numbers and only 15.8 per cent shared messaging app IDs.

Instagram was overwhelmingly the top platform, with 97.5 per cent of teens naming it their go-to for first-time connections. This put it far ahead of other social media platforms, which were used by just a small percentage of respondents. While a ubiquitous messaging app in South Korea played a central role in daily communication, it was far less popular for initial interactions.

This generational shift reflects deeper changes in how teens communicate. The survey described today’s youth as the “call-phobia” generation, pointing out their preference for text-based interactions over phone calls, which many see as intrusive or stressful. Instagram, with its seamless messaging system and visual features, offers a low-pressure way to communicate and share moments.

Sharing a social media account also allows for greater control and privacy. A phone number feels more personal, while an Instagram profile gives teens the chance to vet potential connections and showcase a curated version of their lives.

While Instagram is used for making new connections and staying in touch with close friends, teens rely on different platforms depending on the relationship. A messaging app was the default choice for communicating with parents, with 94.2 per cent of teens using the app to stay in touch with their families.

On the other hand, teens preferred another social media platform when chatting with online friends who share similar interests, thanks to the platform’s anonymity and niche communities.

These habits highlight how teens tailor their communication tools to fit their needs. As the survey noted, Instagram is a platform for sharing everyday life, making it a natural fit for real-life friends, while other platforms are better suited for expressing personal interests and building connections in niche communities.

Korea’s preference for Instagram mirrors trends in other countries. A study on Gen Z habits across several countries found that many Gen Z users worldwide shared social media handles as their primary contact method when meeting someone new.

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