Seoul/Sejong, South Korea – In a move highlighting growing concerns over data security and the potential misuse of generative AI, South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy have jointly blocked access to the Chinese-developed DeepSeek AI platform. The decision, effective February 5th, reflects a heightened sensitivity surrounding the use of AI tools within government sectors handling sensitive information.
According to multiple government sources, each ministry independently decided to restrict access to DeepSeek via computers connected to external networks. A Ministry of National Defense official, in an interview with Yonhap News Agency, cited technical concerns regarding DeepSeek, leading to the implementation of a block on networked computers used for military operations. Another official confirmed that attempting to access the DeepSeek website via a computer with external network access now results in an access restricted message.
The move comes amidst increasing scrutiny over the potential for DeepSeek to excessively collect user data. By implementing these restrictions, the South Korean government aims to mitigate the risks associated with using generative AI tools, particularly the potential for data breaches and the compromise of sensitive information.
The decision to block DeepSeek underscores the growing awareness of the challenges and potential risks associated with the rapid advancement of AI technology, said one cybersecurity expert familiar with the situation. Governments worldwide are grappling with how to balance the benefits of AI with the need to protect national security and sensitive data.
While the specific technical concerns cited by the Ministry of National Defense remain undisclosed, the decision highlights a broader trend of governments exercising caution when adopting AI technologies, especially those developed by foreign entities. The potential for data harvesting, algorithmic bias, and the use of AI for espionage are all factors contributing to this cautious approach.
The South Korean government’s decision to block DeepSeek serves as a reminder of the complex considerations involved in integrating AI into sensitive sectors. As AI technology continues to evolve, governments will need to develop robust regulatory frameworks and security protocols to ensure its responsible and secure use. Further investigation into the specific concerns surrounding DeepSeek and similar platforms is warranted to better understand and address the potential risks.
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