South Korea AI Basic Act: 172 Inquiries Received in First 10 Days of Implementation (Feb 3, 2026)
South Korea is responding to the recent implementation of its Artificial Intelligence Basic Law with a dedicated support system for businesses. Since the law’s enactment, a total of 172 inquiries have been submitted to the ‘AI Basic Law Support Desk’ within the first ten days of operation.
Navigating the New AI Regulations
The support desk, established by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) and the Korea Artificial Intelligence and Software Industry Association (KOSA), received inquiries via phone (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM) and online (24 hours a day). The inquiries came from small and medium-sized enterprises, startups, and other general businesses. 78 inquiries were handled via phone consultation, while 94 were submitted online.
Key Concerns from Businesses
Phone consultations frequently centered on the online submission process and questions regarding the obligation to ensure transparency in artificial intelligence. When consultations proved complex, individuals were directed to submit their questions online. Online inquiries focused on Article 31, concerning AI transparency requirements (53 inquiries, representing 56.4% of online submissions), Article 33, regarding the confirmation of high-impact AI (16 inquiries, or 17%), and Article 2, defining key terms (10 inquiries, or 10.6%).
The requirement for AI transparency, as outlined in the law, mandates that AI service providers clearly inform users that they are utilizing AI-based products or services and that the results provided are generated by artificial intelligence. Many businesses are currently seeking clarification on whether their services fall under this transparency obligation and how to appropriately display this information.
Regarding high-impact AI, inquiries primarily focused on determining whether existing services qualified as such. Questions also arose concerning the definitions of “AI business operator” and “user,” and which category a particular service fell into.
Lee Jin-soo, Director-General for AI Policy Planning at the Ministry of Science and ICT, stated that the support desk was established to reduce confusion and ensure the successful implementation of the AI Basic Law. The ministry and KOSA intend to continue providing consultation and support to businesses through the end of the year, and will analyze the inquiries to inform potential improvements to the law.
The support desk is staffed by experts from the National Information Society Agency, the AI Safety Research Institute, the Korea Information and Communication Technology Association, and the Information and Communications Policy Research Institute, along with legal professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the AI Basic Law Support Desk?
The support desk was established to respond to inquiries from businesses regarding the AI Basic Law and to help ensure its successful implementation.
What were the most frequent topics of inquiry?
The most frequent topics of inquiry were related to Article 31 (AI transparency requirements), Article 33 (high-impact AI confirmation), and Article 2 (definitions of key terms).
How quickly are inquiries being addressed?
Online inquiries are typically addressed within 72 hours (or 14 days for more complex cases), though the first ten days of operation saw a response time of under 24 hours to address initial concerns.
As the AI Basic Law continues to take effect, it remains to be seen how businesses will adapt and whether further clarification or adjustments to the regulations will be necessary. The ongoing support provided by MSIT and KOSA could prove crucial in facilitating a smooth transition and fostering responsible AI development.