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South Korea Suspends New Downloads of AI App DeepSeek Over Data Privacy Concerns
The Personal Information Protection Commission in South Korea issued an order to block fresh downloads of the Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek because of doubts about its adherence to data protection regulations. The suspension of new downloads for DeepSeek came into effect on February 17, 2025, after the PIPC completed its investigation regarding user privacy risks and data collection practices.
Privacy Concerns and Regulatory Actions
Research by PIPC found that DeepSeek did not meet all requirements of South Korean personal data protection rules. The authorities raised privacy issues about the AI chatbot because it was suspected of collecting excessive personal data that could reveal user identities through keystroke patterns. Reports indicate that chat records can be sent to Chinese servers, which creates security concerns about both data protection and foreign access to important information.
DeepSeek took action by appointing South Korean legal representatives to work on strengthening compliance while the company remains under suspension for new downloads. The ban on new downloads will stay active until the platform implements the needed modifications. The service restriction enables current DeepSeek users to maintain access to their web service operations in South Korea.
Wider Implications and International Scrutiny
DeepSeek faced this decision following the National Intelligence Service of South Korea warning about its data collection methods. The National Intelligence Service pointed out that personal information was vulnerable to surveillance or misuse from foreign entities.
The DeepSeek software has encountered criticism from locations outside of South Korea. The Italian data protection authority issued an order to DeepSeek for blocking access to its chatbot because of privacy policy concerns. The United States government considers DeepSeek too risky for official devices because it poses threats to national security.
DeepSeek’s Response and Future Compliance
DeepSeek has responded by expressing its commitment to meet South Korean privacy regulations while it actively works to bring its services back into compliance. DeepSeek has announced plans to adjust its services and procedures for achieving compliance before restarting normal operations.
The PIPC of South Korea declared it will maintain AI service monitoring and will execute security measures to protect user data. By nature, this situation confirms that regulators now pay greater attention to AI systems while enforcing international privacy regulations, so companies need to meet global requirements.
Consult the current updates regarding worldwide AI rules and data security through official sources.
