DeepSeek AI chatbot removed in South Korea over privacy safety concerns The decision follows an investigation that found the app was collecting excessive amounts of personal data which it retained on servers abroad. This has brought up questions regarding AI privacy policies and the dangers of using AI-based chatbots.

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So, why did South Korea take the step to ban DeepSeek AI?

Privacy Concerns

In South Korea, the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) investigated DeepSeek and determined that it:

Gathered too much private information, such as users’ keystroke patterns.

Filed to disclose how user data was being used.

Chat logs are stored on foreign servers, which some have cited as a security risk.

These issues contravene South Korean data protection laws, resulting in the ban.

National Security Risks

These data storage practices could allow foreign governments access to user information with the help of DeepSeek. Tracking & Profiling Users With Personal Data — Safety Risk The chatbot could also disclose sensitive private information if employed by government officials or businesspeople. Due to these risks, the South Korean government agencies have prohibited the app operating on their networks.

Reinstate the ban (U.S. government action)

Removal from App Stores DeepSeek vanished from South Korea’s Google Play Store and Apple App Store on February 15, 2025.

Current users can still use the app, but authorities recommend avoiding sharing any personal information.

Government Agencies Place Restrictions

DeepSeek has been blocked from the networks of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.

The Defense Ministry has similarly limited the app’s use for security reasons.

DeepSeek’s Response

DeepSeek has r​ecognised some compliance issues, and has taken the below actions:

Designated Taiwan agents to address privacy concerns.

Said they were making policy changes to comply with South Korea’s rules.

Intends to revive the app once everything is resolved.

But until those changes are made, the ban stays in effect.

International response: Action by other countries

South Korea is not the only nation raising alarms about DeepSeek.

Italy has also banned the chatbot over privacy issues.

Australia and Taiwan have banned the app on government devices.

If DeepSeek does not enhance its privacy policies, other countries could follow suit.

This Means for Users:

If you’re a DeepSeek user in South Korea, here’s what you should know:

DeepSeek needs to address privacy concerns before new downloads are permitted.

Existing users will still have access to the app, but avoid sharing personal details.

Businesses and government agencies are limiting access because of security risks.

Until the situation stabilizes, users can keep an eye on the news and explore other AI chatbots that comply with privacy regulations.

Conclusion

In South Korea, DeepSeek AI now faces a temporary ban that illustrates growing concerns regarding AI privacy and security. AI companies will have to also show more transparency if they use your data, and abide by local laws, with governments cracking down on data protection.

FAQs

Why was DeepSeek AI prohibited in South Korea?

DeepSeek was banned for collecting an excessive amount of personal data and for storing chat records abroad, both of which posed risks to privacy and security, officials said.

Existing users able to use DeepSeek AI?

Yes, current users can still use the app, but new downloads are banned in South Korea.

Will DeepSeek AI be legalized once again in South Korea?

The DeepSeek project is in the process of fixing privacy issues. If it is in accordance with South Korea’s data protection rules, it might return.

Any other country has banned DeepSeek?

Yes, Italy has banned it, and Australia and Taiwan have limited its use on government devices.

Am I supposed to stop using DeepSeek AI?

If you are worried about privacy risks, it is better not to share personal information on the app until DeepSeek enhances its policies.