South Korean authorities have temporarily blocked new downloads of DeepSeek artificial intelligence (AI) app
Gatekeepers News reports that the country cited concerns over the company’s handling of user data as reason for the ban.
The country’s Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) announced the move on Monday.
According to the commission; the Chinese AI startup had failed to fully comply with South Korea’s data protection laws.
PIPC said DeepSeek recently appointed legal representatives in South Korea and admitted to partially neglecting regulatory considerations regarding user privacy.
It said, “The Chinese startup appointed legal representatives last week in South Korea and had acknowledged partially neglecting considerations of the country’s data protection law.”
The commission noted that the app’s service would resume once the company implements improvements in accordance with national privacy laws.
According to Reauters; When asked about the move, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry said the Chinese government prioritises data privacy and security, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
The spokesperson added that China does not require companies or individuals to collect or store data in violation of laws.
The ban follows similar actions by other governments.
South Korea is not the only country that has made the move. Australia on Febraury 4, banned the use of DeepSeek on government Devices, citing security concerns.
Italy’s privacy regulator also blocked the AI service recently, citing the company’s failure to address data policy issues.
