Chinese AI App DeepSeek Resumes Downloads in South Korea After Privacy Update

Chinese artificial intelligence app DeepSeek has resumed availability in South Korea’s app stores after a two-month suspension due to data protection concerns. Downloads were halted in February when South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) found that DeepSeek had transferred user data and prompts without user consent upon its initial launch in January.

Following regulatory scrutiny, DeepSeek updated its privacy policy, pledging compliance with South Korea's Personal Information Protection Act. The revised terms now give users the option to refuse the transfer of personal information to designated companies in China and the United States.

As of Monday, DeepSeek is once again available for download on major platforms, including Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store. The PIPC noted that DeepSeek voluntarily decided to relaunch its service after reflecting at least some of the agency's recommendations.

Despite the relaunch, DeepSeek has not immediately responded to media requests for further comment. The case highlights the growing regulatory pressure on foreign tech companies operating in South Korea, where data privacy enforcement is becoming increasingly stringent.

The renewed availability of DeepSeek could signal the company's intent to expand its presence in the competitive South Korean AI market, provided it maintains strict adherence to local privacy laws.