South Korea Halts Local Operations of Chinese AI App DeepSeek
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Synopsis
The South Korean government has temporarily suspended the Chinese AI app DeepSeek due to concerns over its data collection practices. The suspension will remain in effect until the app addresses these issues in compliance with local laws.
Key Takeaways
- Temporary suspension of DeepSeek due to data concerns.
- Commission awaits improvements to resume service.
- DeepSeek acknowledged shortcomings in compliance.
- Chinese Ambassador referenced a joint AI declaration.
- Concerns over personal data leaks prompted government action.
Seoul, Feb 17 (NationPress) The government announced on Monday that it has put a temporary halt to the local operation of the Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) application DeepSeek due to worries regarding its data collection practices.
The Personal Information Protection Commission indicated that the service was paused at 6 p.m. on Saturday and will only be reinstated after necessary improvements and remedies align with South Korea's personal data protection regulations.
This action follows multiple government ministries and agencies restricting internal access to the AI service over concerns regarding the startup's data management practices, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
Last month, the commission sent a formal request to DeepSeek for clarification regarding its data collection and management methods.
In response, DeepSeek has appointed a representative in South Korea and recognized its shortcomings in adhering to local protection laws while expressing a willingness to actively collaborate with the commission.
In the meantime, Chinese Ambassador Dai Bing recently referenced the joint declaration on AI signed by South Korea, China, and other nations during a recent summit in Paris, as Seoul takes steps to restrict access to the AI model DeepSeek due to security issues.
This was the ambassador's first public statement as South Korea moves to limit DeepSeek's accessibility across all government sectors, citing concerns over potential leaks of personal and confidential data.
South Korea's intelligence agency has advised the government to exercise caution regarding its usage.
“At the Paris Artificial Intelligence Summit, China, alongside South Korea, France, and 60 other countries and international organizations, collectively endorsed the Declaration on the Development of Inclusive and Sustainable AI for the Benefit of Humanity and the Planet,” Dai stated in a post on the social media platform X, highlighting a mutual commitment to the secure, sustainable, and equitable advancement of AI.
Dai also remarked that DeepSeek has “ignited global discussions.”
