It's an interesting study and something that definitely seems to be on the rise.

Actually something I noticed when I came to Korea was the 'addiction' of people to their smartphone. In New Zealand everyone had one, but everyone (at least the people I hang out with) were all able to leave their phones without a problem.

In Korea though it seems totally different... When hanging out, everyone checks their phone. There are even times when eating with your friends where no one will talk... Everyone will be on their phone. People seem to prefer their phone to their friends.

I don't think I ever have seen anyone without a phone while being here. But then again, it seems fair enough due to the dependence we have on them for contact purposes and the fact that traveling can be rather boring, but still something interesting I noticed.