Seoul, South Korea – February 5, 2025 – A growing number of South Korean public institutions and private companies are implementing bans on the use of DeepSeek, a large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) model developed in China, following concerns about excessive data collection and potential privacy violations.
The move comes amid increasing global scrutiny of AI data practices and the potential risks associated with sharing sensitive information with foreign-developed technologies.
According to industry sources, the IT giant Kakao recently issued an internal memo prohibiting its employees from using DeepSeek for work-related tasks. This decision is particularly noteworthy as it comes just one day after Kakao announced a strategic partnership with OpenAI, the American AI research and deployment company. Kakao’s ban marks the first instance of a major South Korean IT firm restricting the use of DeepSeek.
The decision to ban DeepSeek was not taken lightly, a Kakao spokesperson stated. We are committed to protecting the privacy of our users and the security of our data. While we recognize the potential benefits of AI, we must also be vigilant about the risks.
Mobile carrier LG U+ followed suit, banning the use of DeepSeek on its internal network. The company also advised employees to minimize the use of DeepSeek on personal computers and cautioned them against entering sensitive or critical personal information when using the tool.
The trend extends beyond the private sector. Several South Korean public institutions are also reportedly considering or have already implemented similar restrictions on DeepSeek. While specific details regarding these institutions are not yet publicly available, the widespread concern highlights the gravity of the situation.
The concerns surrounding DeepSeek echo similar anxieties raised in other countries regarding the data collection practices of AI models, particularly those developed by foreign entities. The potential for these models to collect and transmit user data back to their country of origin has raised concerns about national security and data sovereignty.
The South Korean government is closely monitoring the situation and is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens’ data, a government official stated. We are working with industry stakeholders to develop clear guidelines and regulations for the use of AI technologies.
The DeepSeek ban in South Korea underscores the growing importance of data privacy and security in the age of AI. As AI technologies become increasingly integrated into various aspects of daily life, governments and businesses alike are grappling with the challenge of balancing innovation with the need to protect sensitive information. The incident serves as a reminder of the complex geopolitical considerations that are increasingly intertwined with the development and deployment of AI technologies.
Moving Forward
The South Korean response to DeepSeek raises important questions about the future of cross-border AI collaboration and the need for international standards on data privacy and security. Further research is needed to fully understand the data collection practices of AI models and to develop effective mechanisms for protecting user data in a globalized world. It is also crucial for governments and businesses to engage in open dialogue and collaboration to address the ethical and societal implications of AI technologies.
References
- Yonhap News Agency. (2025, February 5). 详讯：韩国企事业单位纷纷发布DeepSeek禁令 [Detailed report: South Korean companies and institutions issue DeepSeek ban]. Retrieved from [Insert Original Article URL Here – If Available]
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