UPDATE — SEPTEMBER 2025:

South Korea is rapidly shifting from AI privacy guidance to enforcement. After releasing its AI privacy framework in 2024, the government moved in mid-2025 to strengthen legal oversight when the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) proposed amendments to the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA). Also, these changes embed AI-specific privacy protections into law, making requirements for algorithmic transparency, risk assessments, and fairness legally binding.

A key development is the introduction of mandatory AI Privacy Impact Assessments for large-scale AI systems used in high-risk sectors such as healthcare, finance, and employment. Organizations must now document how their AI systems manage bias, ensure fairness, minimize data use, and protect personal information. This expands South Korea’s existing privacy impact framework and aligns it more closely with the EU AI Act’s risk-based regulatory model.

Regulatory oversight has also been streamlined. In June 2025, PIPC consolidated its AI Privacy Team and New Technology Personal Information Division into a new Digital Safety Strategy Office. Also, this unit oversees AI governance alongside cybersecurity, child protection, and digital ethics, signaling a more coordinated approach to digital regulation.

South Korea is strengthening its international alignment as well. The government has begun adopting elements of the EU AI Act’s risk classification system to support cross-border compliance. In August 2025, South Korea and France launched a joint working group focused on AI data governance and regulatory interoperability.

Public consultations held between late 2024 and early 2025 highlighted strong public demand for greater algorithmic transparency, auditability, and avenues for redress. Also, PIPC has committed to reflecting these priorities in its enforcement guidance.

Phased compliance begins in mid-2025 for government agencies and large enterprises, with small and medium-sized businesses expected to comply by early 2026.

ORIGINAL NEWS STORY:

South Korea Unveils Comprehensive Framework for AI Privacy Protection

South Korea has introduced a new national framework aimed at protecting personal data in artificial intelligence systems. The initiative responds to growing concerns about how AI technologies collect, process, and infer personal information across sectors.

The framework was developed jointly by the AI Privacy Team and the New Technology Personal Information Division. Also, it reflects the government’s effort to ensure that AI innovation advances without undermining individual privacy rights.

Addressing Privacy Risks in AI Systems

AI tools now play a central role in daily life, from smart devices to automated decision-making. As their use expands, risks tied to data misuse, opaque algorithms, and unintended outcomes have become more visible.

The government’s framework focuses on identifying and managing these risks early. Also, it encourages organizations to take a proactive approach rather than reacting after harm occurs.

• AI-Specific Risk Assessment: The framework introduces methodologies tailored for identifying potential privacy risks unique to AI systems, including biases in data processing and unintended algorithmic outcomes.

• Privacy by Design: Developers are encouraged to embed privacy safeguards during the early stages of AI system design, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations and reducing vulnerabilities.

• Data Minimization and Security: The framework mandates strict data minimization protocols and enhanced security measures to prevent unauthorized access or breaches.

• Continuous Monitoring and Updates: Organizations deploying AI systems must regularly evaluate their models for privacy impacts, adapting to new threats and technological advancements.

Alignment With Global AI Governance Efforts

South Korea’s framework aligns with international efforts to govern AI responsibly. It draws on principles from the OECD AI Recommendations and reflects emerging approaches seen in the European Union’s AI Act.

The government has stressed that global coordination matters, especially where AI systems rely on cross-border data flows. Hence, harmonized standards can reduce regulatory friction while strengthening protections.

Public Engagement and Implementation Planning

To support adoption, the government plans to host public consultations and technical workshops. These sessions will gather input from industry, civil society, and academic experts.

Also, a dedicated task force will oversee implementation and enforcement. Its role is to ensure the framework remains practical, effective, and responsive to technological change.

Need Help?

If you have questions or concerns about AI guidelines, regulations and laws, don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Therefore, their Audit Experts can offer valuable insight, and ensure you’re informed and compliant.