[2025 Audit] Naver: "No Use of Data for AI Training Without Media Consent"

Naver AI Model Faces Allegations of Unauthorized Content Use
Deputy Prime Minister Bae: "Efforts Underway to Rationalize Data Regulations"

Naver has addressed concerns that its artificial intelligence (AI) model used large-scale content without authorization during the training process, stating, "Since May 2023, our terms have changed, and we do not use (data) without the consent of media outlets."

On the 13th, the National Assembly Science, Technology, Information and Broadcasting and Communications Committee's national audit is being conducted at the Government Complex Sejong. Photo by Noh Kyungjo

Kim Gwanghyun, Head of Naver's Search and Data Platform Division, made this statement in response to a question from Assemblywoman Choi Sujin of the People Power Party at the National Assembly Science, Technology, Information and Broadcasting and Communications Committee's national audit held at the Government Complex Sejong on the 13th. Choi had asked, "Is it true that HyperCLOVA used news from the three major broadcasters during its training process?"

He added, "We are having various discussions with media outlets regarding AI model training. For example, with companies like Brilliant Company, we are building a cooperative relationship where we provide AI technology and receive content in return."

Assemblywoman Choi also emphasized the urgent need for reasonable regulation of data in the AI era and called for government efforts. She stated, "Looking at overseas cases in Europe, Japan, and the United States, most are moving toward easing regulations based on considerations of public interest," and asked what the Ministry of Science and ICT has done in this regard.

Deputy Prime Minister Bae responded, "We have designated 12 million public works as part of a regulatory sandbox and plan to continue releasing more," adding, "The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Ministry of SMEs and Startups are also discussing rationalizing data regulations together." He continued, "Although there was some conflict with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, we are now working together," and stressed, "The government recognizes the urgency of data training."