Background on DeepSeek and its Relevance
DeepSeek is an emerging Chinese artificial intelligence company that recently launched its application in South Korea in January. The company specializes in AI technology, aiming to provide intelligent services and solutions to users worldwide. However, the company has recently faced scrutiny from South Korea’s data protection authority due to allegations of unauthorized data transfers.
Data Transfer Controversy
On Thursday, South Korea’s data protection authority stated that DeepSeek transferred user data and messages without consent when the service was still available for download in the country’s app market. The authority claims that Hangzhou DeepSeek Artificial Intelligence Co Ltd did not have user permission to transfer personal information to various Chinese and US companies at the time of its launch in South Korea.
Application Suspension and Subsequent Actions
In February, South Korea’s data protection agency suspended new downloads of the DeepSeek app in the country following claims that DeepSeek had failed to comply with certain data protection standards set by the agency. The authority further alleged that DeepSeek sent both AI-generated message content and user device, network, and app information to Beijing Volcano Engine Technology Co. Ltd.
DeepSeek later communicated to the agency that the decision to transfer information to Volcano Engine aimed to enhance user experience and that they had blocked the transfer of AI-generated message content starting April 10, according to the statement.
Corrective Measures and Response from China
In response to the South Korean announcement, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Thursday that the Chinese government has never requested and will never request companies to illegally collect and store data. The ministry emphasized that Chinese businesses must adhere to local laws and regulations regarding data protection and privacy.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is DeepSeek? DeepSeek is a Chinese artificial intelligence company specializing in AI technology and services.
- What is the controversy about? South Korea’s data protection authority accuses DeepSeek of transferring user data and messages without consent.
- What actions were taken by South Korea’s data protection agency? The agency suspended new downloads of the DeepSeek app and demanded corrective measures from DeepSeek, including removing transferred content from Beijing Volcano Engine Technology Co. Ltd. and establishing a legal basis for transferring personal information abroad.
- How did DeepSeek respond? DeepSeek claimed that the transfer of information to Volcano Engine aimed to improve user experience and blocked AI-generated message content transfer starting April 10.
- What was China’s response? The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Chinese government has never requested illegal data collection and emphasized that Chinese businesses must comply with local data protection laws.
