On a notable Saturday, South Korean authorities made the significant decision to restrict the download of DeepSeek’s app, an artificial intelligence service developed by the Chinese company based in Hangzhou. This preemptive action stems from an ongoing evaluation of how DeepSeek manages and safeguards user data, particularly in the wake of increasing scrutiny over privacy violations by foreign tech entities. The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) announced that the application will remain on hold until it meets the specific regulatory requirements of South Korea, emphasizing the country’s commitment to stringent data privacy standards.
The PIPC’s investigation revealed concern over DeepSeek’s handling of sensitive information. After inquiries made shortly after the app’s launch in late January, officials discovered that DeepSeek had shared data regarding South Korean users with ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, further aggravating privacy apprehensions. Although current users in South Korea can still access the app, the PIPC strongly cautioned against inputting any personal data until the full scope of compliance is determined. This act of advising users adds to the increasing pressure on DeepSeek to revamp its data protocols and instill greater user confidence.
After receiving initial complaints, South Korea’s regulatory bodies took a multi-faceted approach that included liaising with DeepSeek directly in an effort to educate the company about local data protection laws. Their findings revealed significant gaps in the company’s understanding and execution of these laws when they entered the South Korean market. In a strategic response, DeepSeek stated it would enhance its cooperation with local authorities to rectify identified issues. The rapid appointment of a regional representative by DeepSeek marks a critical step in their attempts to adapt and establish compliance with these laws.
The actions by South Korean officials reflect a broader global trend of hesitancy towards tech enterprises rooted in China. Several other countries, including Australia and Italy, have imposed restrictions or outright bans on the use of DeepSeek within governmental systems, citing similar security concerns. These developments underline a growing apprehension around data sovereignty and privacy in an age where technology is pivotal in daily life and geopolitics.
As DeepSeek navigates this complex landscape of scrutiny and regulation, its future in markets beyond China hangs in the balance. Founded by Liang Feng in 2023, the startup’s mission is to compete with established AI entities like OpenAI, but this ambition is now marred by questions of its operational integrity. The company’s commitment to compliance will be paramount in determining its acceptance in South Korea and potentially other nations. The ongoing situation serves as a critical reminder of the necessity for tech companies, especially those operating on an international scale, to prioritize user privacy and trust in their operational frameworks.