Pohang City Proactively Blocks Generative AI Deepseek... Until Safety Concerns Are Resolved

Blocked Until Security and Personal Information Protection Review Is Complete
Preparing for Security Threats to Administrative Information, Including Sensitive Data Leakage

Pohang City recently decided to temporarily block access to the AI service Deepseek on its administrative network until the security and personal information protection levels of the service are thoroughly reviewed.

DeepSeek blocking screen on Pohang City's business network. Provided by Pohang City

Deepseek is gaining attention as an AI-based coding and conversational chatbot service; however, due to concerns about whether it meets domestic and international security and personal information protection standards, Pohang City has blocked access to the site since the 6th to proactively prevent information security and personal data leakage risks.

Previously, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the National Intelligence Service provided security precautions for the use of generative AI services to all central government ministries and local governments.

Anna Kyung, Director of the Information and Communication Division, stated, “While the development of AI services is welcome, protecting the information of citizens and administrative agencies is our top priority. We plan to consider lifting the access restrictions once a thorough review of Deepseek’s security and personal information protection system confirms its safety.”

Pohang City plans to continue conducting regular inspections in cooperation with related organizations and experts to strengthen information security and personal information protection standards for AI services including Deepseek, and to create a safe digital environment.