The law, known as the AI Basic Act, came into effect in January 2026. It introduces requirements for transparency in the operation of AI services and mandates that users be informed when they are dealing with content created by artificial intelligence.
For high-risk areas such as healthcare, transportation, finance, and security, special requirements are established. In these fields, the use of AI is only permitted under human oversight.
Failure to comply with the new rules will result in administrative fines.
Additionally, the authorities have announced a transitional period during which companies can adapt to the new requirements without facing penalties.
It is worth noting that the law was passed by the South Korean parliament back in late 2024. Its primary goal is to reduce risks associated with misinformation and abuses caused by deepfakes and other AI-generated content, as well as to enhance public trust in new technologies.
