South Korea’s AI Basic Act Comes Into Force With Deepfake Rules

South Korea has brought its wide-ranging artificial intelligence law into force, making it the first country where such regulation is fully applicable.

The AI Basic Act requires companies to notify users when generative AI is used and to clearly label content, including deepfakes, that cannot be easily distinguished from reality.

The Ministry of Science and ICT said the law is meant to build a safety- and trust-based foundation for AI innovation, with violations attracting fines up to 30 million won.

The law also places stricter transparency and safety requirements on 10 sensitive sectors, including nuclear power, criminal investigations, loan screening, education, and medical care.