Global DPAs convene in Korea

Data Protection Authorities and organisations from 95 countries are currently discussing data protection and AI issues at the 47th Global Privacy Assembly (GPA), hosted by Korea’s Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC).

The GPA gives Korea a leading edge in global norm-setting discussions, traditionally led by Europe and the United States, the PIPC said.
Chairing today’s panel on Global Data Governance in the AI era, Haksoo Ko, Chairperson of the PIPC said that we need to narrow gaps between jurisdictions’ approaches to AI. All stakeholders must come together.

John Edwards, UK Information Commissioner reflected on the UK’s position on AI and data protection law by saying that the ICO has issued guidance on how UK GDPR principles apply to AI - echoing his EU colleagues. While the UK has no specific AI legislation at the moment, Edwards said that the UK is developing initiatives domestically that will contribute to international standards.

The President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae-myung announced yesterday initiatives on rationalising AI regulation – how to treat copyright issues for example. According to The Chosun Daily, Lee Jae-myung said that copyright should not apply to AI training and that Korea’s Guidelines restricting the use of this type of data should be revised.

Shortly after the EU adopted its AI Act in May 2024, Korea adopted an AI Act in January 2025. It will enter into force in January 2026.

The conference continues tomorrow, 17 September.