In South Korea, the world's first global law on AI regulation has come into effect.

South Korea has become the first country in the world to adopt a comprehensive law on the safe use of artificial intelligence. The document, known as the AI Basic Act, entered into force on January 22 and establishes a legal framework for regulating risks associated with the development of AI, including disinformation and deepfakes.

The law introduces the concept of "high-risk AI" — systems capable of significantly impacting people's lives and safety. These include, for example, AI tools used in hiring, loan approvals, or providing medical advice. Companies and developers are required to inform users that a service is AI-based and ensure its safe application.

A separate requirement concerns content labeling: materials created with the help of AI must have watermarks indicating their artificial origin. The government considers this a minimal measure to prevent misuse of the technology, including the creation of deepfakes.

Foreign companies providing AI services in South Korea and meeting certain criteria regarding revenue, sales, or number of users are required to appoint a local representative. The law applies, in particular, to OpenAI and Google.

Violations of the requirements are subject to fines of up to 30 million won, although authorities plan to introduce a one-year transition period before strict enforcement of sanctions begins.

The law also aims to support the AI industry: the government will develop a development strategy every three years and has launched a special business support service for consultations on the new rules.

Source: Korea Times