Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has paused downloads of its popular chatbot applications in South Korea, following intervention from local authorities concerned about data privacy. South Korean officials announced on Monday that the app removals are temporary, as DeepSeek collaborates with regulators to address identified privacy issues and strengthen user protections before a potential relaunch.
South Korea Flags Privacy Concerns, App Stores Remove DeepSeek
South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) revealed that DeepSeek’s applications were removed from the South Korean versions of both Apple’s App Store and Google Play on Saturday evening. This action comes as the PIPC initiated a review of DeepSeek’s services last month, ultimately identifying a lack of transparency regarding third-party data transfers and potential over-collection of personal information.
Nam Seok, director of the PIPC’s investigation division, stated that DeepSeek has agreed to cooperate with the agency to enhance privacy safeguards. Until these issues are resolved, the app downloads will remain paused.
Users Urged to Exercise Caution
While the app download pause prevents new installations, existing DeepSeek users in South Korea who have already downloaded the app on their phones or access it on personal computers are not directly affected by the removal from app stores. However, Director Nam Seok issued advice to South Korean users currently using DeepSeek, recommending they:
- Delete the App: Uninstall DeepSeek from their devices as a precautionary measure.
- Avoid Entering Personal Information: Refrain from inputting any personal data into the chatbot tool until the privacy concerns are fully addressed and resolved.
DeepSeek’s Rapid Rise and Global Attention
DeepSeek recently garnered significant global attention after claiming to have developed its widely-used chatbot at a fraction of the cost compared to its U.S. counterparts. This claim ignited a flurry of interest and debate, catapulting DeepSeek into the spotlight and intensifying discussions surrounding the AI technology race between the United States and China.
Government and Corporate Networks Block DeepSeek
Amidst growing unease surrounding data security, numerous South Korean government agencies and companies have reportedly taken preemptive measures. Many organizations have blocked DeepSeek access from their internal networks or explicitly prohibited employees from using the application for work-related purposes. These restrictions reflect concerns that DeepSeek’s AI model might be collecting excessive and potentially sensitive information.
Privacy Commission Cites Lack of Transparency and Data Collection Concerns
The South Korean privacy commission’s investigation, initiated last month, uncovered key areas of concern regarding DeepSeek’s privacy practices. Nam Seok highlighted the following issues:
- Lack of Transparency in Third-Party Data Transfers: Insufficient information about how DeepSeek shares or transfers user data to external entities.
- Potential Excessive Collection of Personal Information: Concerns that DeepSeek may be gathering more personal data than is necessary or justifiable for its service.
Significant User Base in South Korea
Despite the privacy concerns, DeepSeek has quickly gained traction in the South Korean market. A recent analysis by Wiseapp Retail indicated that DeepSeek was used by approximately 1.2 million smartphone users in South Korea during the fourth week of January. This rapid adoption positioned DeepSeek as the second-most-popular AI model in South Korea, trailing only behind the established leader, ChatGPT.
Looking Ahead: DeepSeek’s Path to Re-launch and Data Privacy in AI
DeepSeek’s temporary pause in South Korea underscores the increasing scrutiny surrounding data privacy practices in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. As DeepSeek collaborates with South Korean authorities to strengthen its privacy protections, the outcome of this situation will be closely watched. The case highlights the critical importance of transparency and robust data security measures for AI developers, particularly as AI applications become increasingly integrated into daily life and handle vast amounts of user information. DeepSeek’s ability to address these concerns effectively will be crucial for its future prospects not only in South Korea, but potentially in other markets globally as well.
