DeepSeek app suspended in South Korea over privacy concerns

South Korea has suspended downloads of the Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek from app stores due to concerns over its handling of user data.

The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) ordered the suspension, citing the company's failure to meet data protection standards.

The suspension, effective February 15, 2025, restricts new downloads of the app from the Apple App Store and Google Play, but existing users can still access the service.

The PIPC advises existing users to exercise caution, such as refraining from entering personal information, until the investigation is complete.

According to the PIPC, DeepSeek acknowledged that considerations for domestic privacy laws were lacking.

The agency identified shortcomings in communication functions and personal information processing policies with third-party service providers.

The PIPC will conduct on-site inspections to ensure compliance with South Korean data protection laws and investigate how DeepSeek stores and processes existing users’ data.

"To mitigate any further concerns, the commission advised DeepSeek to temporarily halt its service while implementing necessary enhancements," the commission stated.

DeepSeek has appointed a local representative in South Korea and is cooperating with the PIPC to strengthen privacy protections.

The Chinese government maintains that its companies operating abroad must adhere to local laws and regulations.

Other countries, including Australia and Taiwan, have also restricted the use of DeepSeek on government devices due to security apprehensions.