DeepSeek suspends services in S. Korea as regulator seeks modifications to data privacy terms

The Chinese AI app, DeepSeek, accused of excessive data collection has been temporarily suspended in South Korea as regulators push for stronger privacy protections.

Our Moon Hye-ryeon has the details.

DeepSeek – the Chinese artificial intelligence startup facing controversy over excessive data collection – has temporarily suspended its services in South Korea.

On Monday, the Personal Information Protection Commission announced that DeepSeek was suspended as of 6 PM on Saturday, and services will resume once modifications are made in line with South Korea's Personal Information Protection Act.

This means that no new users can download the app across any domestic app markets such as Apple's App Store and Google Play, but existing users can continue to use it for the time being.

The data privacy regulator urged caution when using the application, and stated that it is considering further measures to protect existing users.

The suspension comes after DeepSeek accepted the PIPC's recommendation to halt services while corrective measures are being implemented.

Last month, the commission sent an official inquiry to the firm's headquarters seeking clarification on concerns about data collection and processing methods.

An initial review by the PIPC confirmed some of the concerns raised by local and international media, including insufficient disclosure of third-party data sharing and the excessive collection of personal information.

The PIPC plans to conduct a thorough review of DeepSeek's handling practices during the suspension period.

Legislative efforts are also underway to amend the Personal Information Protection Act to reflect AI innovation – strengthening enforcement measures for foreign service providers.

Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.