- South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) temporarily suspended new downloads of the DeepSeek AI chatbot due to concerns over its handling of personal data. The suspension applies to downloads from Apple and Google app stores until the company ensures compliance with South Korea’s privacy laws.
- DeepSeek, a Chinese AI chatbot, has faced global scrutiny over data security, potential censorship and compliance with national regulations.
- The company is working to address concerns, appointing a legal representative in South Korea and updating its policies to meet local requirements.
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South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) has temporarily suspended new downloads of the DeepSeek AI chatbot due to concerns over its handling of personal data. The suspension applies to downloads from the Apple and Google app stores, though the chatbot remains accessible through a web browser.
The commission stated that the suspension will remain in place until the company ensures compliance with South Korea’s privacy laws.
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What is DeepSeek, and why is it drawing global scrutiny?
DeepSeek, a Chinese AI chatbot, has rapidly gained global popularity since its release. It topped download charts in multiple countries.
The company claimed it built its AI system with far fewer high-end computer chips than competitors, raising questions about how it bypassed U.S. export restrictions designed to limit China’s access to advanced semiconductors.
DeepSeek’s emergence has raised concerns about China’s growing AI capabilities and their impact on the global tech landscape.
How have other countries responded to DeepSeek?
Beyond South Korea, Italy’s data protection authority blocked DeepSeek in January over privacy concerns. Taiwan and Australia advised government employees against using the app on official devices.
Authorities in multiple nations have cited concerns about data security, potential censorship and the app’s compliance with national regulations.
How is DeepSeek responding to the suspension?
DeepSeek appointed a legal representative in South Korea last week. The company acknowledged shortcomings in meeting local privacy requirements and is reportedly working to fully comply with its policies.
It has not yet publicly commented on the suspension.
What is China’s response?
China’s Foreign Ministry defended DeepSeek, stating that Chinese companies must comply with local laws when operating abroad.
Spokesman Guo Jiakun urged countries to avoid “politicizing economic, trade and technological issues.”
What’s next for DeepSeek?
The South Korean government has not provided a timeline for when DeepSeek might resume downloads.
Meanwhile, the chatbot remains under increased scrutiny as regulators assess its implications for data privacy and AI security worldwide.
