South Korea says DeepSeek removed from local app stores pending privacy review

South Korean authorities said Monday that DeepSeek would not be available from local app stores pending a review of the Chinese AI startup's handling of user data. The app was removed while authorities "thoroughly examine DeepSeek's personal data processing practices to ensure compliance" with local laws, vice chairperson of Seoul's Personal Information Protection Commission, told a press conference.

South Korea, along with countries such as France and Italy, have questioned DeepSeek's data practices, submitting a written request for information about how the company handles user data.  The app was removed from local app stores on Saturday at 6:00 pm local time. DeepSeek was unavailable on the South Korean version of Apple's app store on Monday. But it was still available to users who had already downloaded the app.