South Korea Sets New Global Standard With AI Regulation Law
South Korea has officially passed a comprehensive set of laws regulating the use of artificial intelligence, making it one of the first countries in the world to do so. This move positions South Korea as a global leader in technology regulation and goes beyond the measures currently implemented by the European Union.
The country has introduced the AI Basic Act, a law designed to regulate artificial intelligence systems. Under this law, strict human oversight is required for high-risk AI applications, including those used in nuclear technology, transportation, healthcare, and water supply systems. In the financial sector, where AI is commonly used for credit assessments and loan approvals, human involvement remains mandatory to prevent serious errors. According to a report by GSM Arena, companies are required to ensure human supervision for AI systems that have significant social or economic impact.
The regulation also obliges companies to be fully transparent with consumers regarding their use of AI technology. Businesses must inform users in advance if their products or services rely on generative AI.
To allow businesses time to adapt, the South Korean government has granted a one-year grace period before penalties and fines are enforced. While the regulation aims to enhance safety and accountability, some local startups have expressed concern. They worry that certain provisions in the law lack clarity and could potentially hinder innovation and the development of new technologies.
South Korea’s leadership in establishing binding ethical regulations highlights the difference between voluntary guidelines and enforceable laws. Several countries, including Indonesia, have issued ethical guidelines for artificial intelligence through regulations such as the Ministry of Communication and Information Regulation №9 of 2023. However, these guidelines are advisory in nature and do not carry formal sanctions.
Source : https://en.tempo.co/read/2083513/south-korea-becomes-first-nation-to-enact-ai-law
