South Korea is tightening its grip on AI security, blocking access to DeepSeek on government computers after the Chinese AI startup failed to clarify its data management practices.
The country’s defense ministry and police confirmed on the 5th of February that they had restricted DeepSeek’s access on work devices, following the company’s silence on a formal inquiry from South Korea’s data watchdog.
The request sought details on how DeepSeek handles user information a growing concern shared by other nations, including France and Italy.
DeepSeek made waves in January with the launch of its R1 chatbot, boasting capabilities that rival U.S. AI leaders but at a significantly lower cost, disrupting the global AI landscape.
However, its data practices have now come under scrutiny.
With no response from DeepSeek, South Korea has moved swiftly.
A defense ministry spokesperson told This Week in Asia:
“Access to DeepSeek from military work computers has been blocked. The ministry has reinforced security precautions regarding the use of generative AI and implemented necessary pre-emptive measures for military personnel’s work devices.”
The police force has also cut off access, while the trade ministry confirmed a temporary block on all its PCs.
Beyond South Korea, Australia has taken even stricter measures, issuing a nationwide ban on DeepSeek across all government devices based on security agency recommendations.
As concerns over AI-related data security and potential leaks intensify, DeepSeek’s future in global markets may hinge on its willingness to address these pressing questions.