DeepSeek's Conflicting Claims on Kimchi's Origin

SEOUL, Feb. 9 -- The artificial intelligence (AI) model named DeepSeek, developed in China, has been found to give conflicting responses regarding the origins of kimchi, depending on the language used for the question. When asked in Korean, DeepSeek stated that kimchi is a traditional Korean dish steeped in the country's culture and history. However, when asked the same question in Chinese, the AI claimed that the origin of kimchi is not Korea but China, according to South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS).

Concerns Over Data Privacy

The NIS further reported that DeepSeek grants advertisers unrestricted access to user data, including personal information. Under Chinese law, this data can potentially be submitted to the Chinese government upon request. These findings have raised significant concerns about user privacy and security.

Inconsistent Answers on Sensitive Topics

When interrogated about historical matters, such as China's Northeast Project — which South Korea criticizes for distorting regional history — DeepSeek provided a different narrative based on the language. In Korean, it acknowledged various perspectives due to historical differences. In contrast, its responses in English and Chinese framed the project as a "legitimate initiative" beneficial to China's national interests.

Responses to South Korean Cultural Questions

The discrepancies continued when discussing cultural events. For instance, when asked in Korean about the Dano festival, a traditional celebration in South Korea, DeepSeek endorsed it as a Korean custom. Conversely, it described the festival as a Chinese traditional holiday when asked in Chinese or English.

Comparison with Other AI Services

Unlike DeepSeek, other popular AI tools, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT and CloverX from South Korea's Naver, provided consistent answers regardless of the question's language. This highlights a fundamental difference in DeepSeek's programming.

Data Collection Practices

DeepSeek also reportedly collects user input patterns, which could aid in identifying individuals. Furthermore, it retains user data, including chat records, which may be transmitted to servers in China. The platform allows for extended storage of user information without clear limits, exacerbating privacy concerns.

Official Warnings from NIS

In light of these issues, the NIS has issued warnings to all South Korean government agencies regarding the security risks associated with using generative AI applications like DeepSeek. The agency is currently conducting a detailed review of DeepSeek's technology and will advise the public on any significant findings.

AI, privacy, Korea, China, kimchi