In a decisive move to protect user privacy, South Korea has suspended downloads of the Chinese AI application DeepSeek from local app stores. This action comes in response to mounting concerns over the app’s data collection practices and potential security risks.
Privacy Concerns and Official Actions
The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) of South Korea announced on February 17, 2025, that the platform agreed to halt new downloads on February 15. This suspension allows time for the company to collaborate with the agency to enhance privacy protections before potentially relaunching the app. Existing users retain access to DeepSeek’s services; however, the PIPC advises caution until the investigation concludes.
The National Intelligence Service (NIS) has accused DeepSeek of “excessively” collecting personal data, including keyboard input patterns that can identify individuals. The agency warns that chat records could be transferred to Chinese servers, granting advertisers unlimited access to user data. Under Chinese law, such information could be accessible to the Chinese government upon request.
Government and Corporate Responses
Several South Korean government ministries, including the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, have temporarily banned employee access to the platform due to security concerns. State-owned enterprises like Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power have implemented similar restrictions. These measures align with actions taken by other countries, such as Australia and Taiwan, which have also restricted or warned against DeepSeek’s use.
In the private sector, companies like Kakao Corp have instructed employees to refrain from using the platform, citing security fears. This caution reflects a broader trend among tech firms to protect sensitive information from potential data breaches associated with AI applications.
International Implications
The concerns surrounding DeepSeek are not confined to South Korea. In the United States, a bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced the “No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act,” aiming to prohibit federal employees from using the app on government-issued devices. This legislative effort underscores the global apprehension regarding data security and potential surveillance associated with Chinese AI applications.
South Korea’s proactive stance in suspending DeepSeek downloads highlights the nation’s commitment to safeguarding personal information in the digital age. As AI technology continues to evolve, ensuring robust data protection measures remains paramount to maintaining public trust and security.