South Korea Temporarily Blocks DeepSeek App Downloads Pending Privacy Assessment
South Korean officials have taken a significant step by temporarily restricting the download of the Chinese AI Lab DeepSeek’s app from app stores in the country. This move comes as part of an ongoing assessment of how the Chinese company handles user data, highlighting growing concerns over data privacy and security issues.
The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) has announced that the Chinese app will only be available for download once it complies with Korean privacy laws and implements necessary changes to ensure user data protection. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the personal information of its citizens.
Concerns Over Data Handling and Privacy Policies
Since the launch of the DeepSeek service in South Korea in late January, the PIPC has been closely monitoring the situation. The commission reached out to the Chinese AI lab to inquire about its data collection and processing practices. During the evaluation process, concerns were raised regarding DeepSeek’s third-party service and privacy policies.
In a recent investigation, the PIPC confirmed that DeepSeek had transferred data of South Korean users to ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. This revelation has raised further questions about the handling of sensitive information and the potential risks associated with sharing data across platforms.
The agency also highlighted that DeepSeek had appointed a local representative in South Korea and expressed a willingness to collaborate with Korean authorities. However, concerns remain about the company’s lack of familiarity with South Korea’s privacy laws, indicating a need for stronger regulatory oversight and enforcement measures.
Global Concerns and Regulatory Actions
South Korea is not the only country taking precautionary measures against DeepSeek due to its Chinese origins. Australia has already prohibited the use of DeepSeek on government devices citing security concerns. Similarly, the Garante in Italy has instructed DeepSeek to block its chatbot in the country, while Taiwan has banned government departments from using DeepSeek AI.
The international response to DeepSeek reflects a broader concern about data security and privacy in the digital age. As more AI technologies and platforms emerge, governments and regulatory authorities are increasingly focused on ensuring that user data is protected and handled responsibly.
Founded by Liang Feng in 2023, DeepSeek has gained attention for its innovative AI models, including the DeepSeek R1 reasoning AI model. However, the company’s recent challenges in South Korea and other countries highlight the importance of transparency, compliance with privacy regulations, and proactive measures to address data security concerns.
In conclusion, the temporary block on DeepSeek app downloads in South Korea underscores the critical need for companies to prioritize user data protection and privacy. As technology continues to advance, maintaining trust and confidence in AI platforms will be essential for fostering a safe and secure digital environment for users worldwide.
