Why South Korea Stopped DeepSeek Downloads

South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) has temporarily stopped new downloads of the Chinese AI app DeepSeek from local app stores. This action stems from concerns about the app’s handling of user data and its compliance with South Korea’s strict privacy laws.

Reasons for the Suspension

  1. Privacy Issues: The PIPC discovered that DeepSeek’s data practices did not meet South Korea’s privacy standards. The app was transferring user data to ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, without adequate disclosure.
  2. Data Sharing with Others: The commission identified issues with the app’s reliance on another company’s services and privacy policies, which could result in excessive data collection.
  3. Security Problems: DeepSeek’s Android and iOS versions were sending user data without encryption, which raised data safety concerns.

Impact on Users

  • Current Users: People who already have the app are not affected by this suspension. They can continue using DeepSeek, but the PIPC advises them not to enter personal information until the issues are resolved.
  • New Downloads: New downloads from Apple’s App Store and Google Play are temporarily halted.

DeepSeek’s Response

DeepSeek admitted it was not fully aware of South Korea’s privacy laws when launching the app. The company has appointed a local representative and plans to work with Korean authorities to fix the issues and ensure compliance.

Global Concerns

South Korea is not the only country worried about DeepSeek. Countries like Australia, Italy, and Taiwan have also restricted the app due to similar data security issues. In the United States, agencies such as NASA and the Navy have banned DeepSeek on official devices.

Future Outlook

The PIPC has said that once DeepSeek meets the requirements of South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Act, the app will be available for download again. The commission is also working on enhancing guidance and oversight to prevent similar issues in the future.

Conclusion

South Korea’s decision to stop DeepSeek downloads highlights global scrutiny of AI apps and their data management. As countries emphasize data privacy and security, companies like DeepSeek must adapt to meet regulatory demands to regain trust and continue operating in these markets.