This study investigates the relationship between phubbing behavior and students’ empathy in the context of digital learning at SMKS Garudaya Bontonompo, Indonesia. The research employs a quantitative correlational design with a sample of 135 students selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using two standardized instruments: the Phubbing Behavior Scale and the Empathy Scale, both of which demonstrated high reliability coefficients. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 23.0. The results indicate a strong and significant negative correlation (r = –0.806, p < 0.05) between phubbing behavior and empathy, suggesting that increased smartphone-centered activity corresponds with decreased emotional understanding. These findings emphasize the need for balanced digital engagement in educational settings and highlight the psychological impact of smartphone dependency on social-emotional development. The study recommends integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) and digital citizenship education into classroom practices to foster empathy and responsible technology use among students.