South Korea has banned new downloads of China’s DeepSeek AI app due to personal data protection concerns. The app became popular but faced scrutiny for privacy issues. Users who already downloaded it can still access it. The decision reflects broader worries over foreign AI technologies and their implications for national security, prompting similar restrictions in other countries, including the U.S.
The government of South Korea has imposed a ban on new downloads of China’s DeepSeek AI chatbot, as announced by the country’s personal data protection authority. The agency indicated that the app will be reinstated for South Korean users once it implements necessary adjustments to comply with national data protection legislation. Despite a surge in popularity with over a million weekly users, the app has faced scrutiny and restrictions globally due to privacy and national security issues.
Following its formidable rise in user engagement, South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Commission declared that DeepSeek would no longer be accessible on major platforms like Apple’s App Store and Google Play. This decision comes on the heels of multiple governmental bodies advising their employees against downloading the chatbot on work devices. Acting President Choi Sang-mok expressed that DeepSeek represents a disruptive force with potential repercussions for various sectors within the country.
Even with the download suspension, individuals who have previously obtained the app can continue using it on their devices or via the DeepSeek website. DeepSeek’s launch has notably impacted the technology landscape, prompting concerns regarding privacy and competitive equity in AI development, particularly regarding U.S. leadership in the sector. Other areas, including Taiwan and Australia, have similarly restricted DeepSeek’s use on governmental devices.
Legislators in the United States have introduced a bill aiming to prohibit DeepSeek from federal devices, highlighting surveillance apprehensions. Several U.S. states, including Texas, Virginia, and New York, have already instituted regulations against its use by state employees. DeepSeek’s large language model is reported to possess reasoning capabilities akin to those of American counterparts like OpenAI’s offerings, yet at significantly lower operational costs, raising critical questions about ongoing investments in AI technology.
In summary, South Korea has moved to restrict downloads of DeepSeek amid rising concerns over personal data safety and national security. This ban follows scrutiny faced by the app from various countries and initiates a broader debate on potential threats posed by its powerful AI technologies. Monitoring and regulatory measures are likely to continue as governments assess the implications of such foreign AI applications on their respective infrastructures.
In conclusion, South Korea’s prohibition of new downloads of China’s DeepSeek AI underscores rising privacy and security concerns surrounding foreign technological applications. As this situation unfolds, it highlights the nuanced balancing act between innovation and safeguarding national interests in the ever-evolving global landscape of artificial intelligence. Further scrutiny and regulation are anticipated as similar actions are taken by other nations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
