Why DeepSeek AI is facing download ban in South Korea
What's the story
South Korea's data protection authority, the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC), has temporarily stopped new downloads of the Chinese AI app DeepSeek.
The suspension comes after DeepSeek acknowledged that it overlooked certain regulations pertaining to personal data protection established by the agency.
However, existing users can continue using the app and its web service continues to operate in South Korea.
User advisory
PIPC advises caution while using DeepSeek
The PIPC has said DeepSeek's services will be restored when the app complies with South Korea's privacy law.
Even though DeepSeek wowed investors and industry insiders with its cost-effective R1 chatbot, questions have been raised over how the company stores user data on "secure servers" located in China.
The PIPC has warned users to "use the service with caution until the final results are announced." This includes not entering personal information into DeepSeek's input field.
International concerns
DeepSeek faces scrutiny in other countries
Several South Korean government departments and police have blocked DeepSeek access on their computers.
The app is also being investigated in Italy, where it has been banned from processing Italian users' data over concerns about its R1 model.
Australia and the US have taken similar steps, with the former banning DeepSeek from all government devices on security agencies' recommendations.
The Indian government is also gearing up to issue an advisory against the use of DeepSeek.