Key information
Representative Cho Kyoung-tae of the National Assembly's Science, ICT, Broadcasting, and Communications Committee has criticized the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) for failing to address explicit content in AI-generated chat applications. These platforms, which include services like 'Crush' and 'Zeta', are currently accessible to minors despite concerns regarding sexually explicit material.
Data provided to the committee reveals that since 2023, 119 complaints regarding explicit content have been filed. Of these, only three were reviewed, resulting in 'no violation' due to insufficient evidence, while 40 were dismissed. Notably, 76 complaints—64% of the total—remain under review for months or even over a year.
The KCSC has not designated any AI chat apps as harmful to youth. While 33 major apps were identified, the commission only requested voluntary self-regulation from four companies last year. No effective sanctions, such as blocking or monitoring, have been implemented, and the commission lacks basic data on app revenue and user statistics.
Following the criticism, the KCSC stated it plans to review the distribution of harmful information and initiate deliberations. Representative Cho condemned the commission's response as sluggish, emphasizing that the rapid evolution of digital threats requires immediate, comprehensive countermeasures to protect minors from harmful AI-generated content.
