South Korea has officially blocked the download of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI-powered search engine, from local app stores due to growing concerns over content censorship and information control. The decision comes after reports that DeepSeek selectively filters search results, particularly those related to China’s government, human rights, and geopolitical issues.
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Censorship and Propaganda Allegations
DeepSeek, which launched as China’s AI-driven alternative to Google, has been accused of acting as a tool for Beijing’s propaganda by restricting access to information on Tiananmen Square, Taiwan, Hong Kong protests, and other sensitive topics. Critics argue that the search engine aligns closely with China’s strict internet censorship policies, commonly known as the Great Firewall.
Several South Korean government officials and internet watchdogs raised concerns over national security risks and digital sovereignty, leading to the ban. A source within South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT confirmed that DeepSeek’s filtering of search results contradicts the country’s commitment to internet freedom and democratic values.
Government and Public Reaction
The Korea Communications Commission (KCC) stated that the ban is aimed at preventing the spread of foreign digital censorship into South Korea. The move aligns with efforts to ensure open access to information and protect users from manipulated search results.
Many South Koreans took to social media, supporting the ban and questioning China’s growing influence over global AI technologies. However, some criticized the government’s decision, arguing that it limits consumer choice.
DeepSeek’s Response
DeepSeek has yet to release an official statement regarding the ban, but Chinese state media outlets have called the decision “an overreaction based on misinformation.”
As global concerns over AI-driven search platforms grow, South Korea’s stance could set a precedent for other countries looking to regulate AI search engines with potential censorship risks.