Basic Act on Artificial Intelligence Passed by the Korean National Assembly

 

The Ministry of Science and ICT has announced the passage of the Basic Act on the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence and the Establishment of a Trust-Based Framework in the National Assembly's plenary session on December 26. This groundbreaking legislation is designed to strengthen AI governance, promote industry growth, and proactively address risks associated with AI technologies.

---

Key Provisions of the Basic Act

1️⃣ Framework for National AI Development and Trust-Based Governance

• To enhance Korea's AI competitiveness, the Minister of Science and ICT will collaborate with relevant ministries and local governments to establish and implement a National AI Master Plan every three years.

2️⃣ Support for AI Industry Development

• The Act provides a solid foundation for government initiatives, including:
  • R&D funding
  • Standardization efforts
  • Policies for training data
  • Support for AI adoption and utilization

3️⃣ Safety and Trust for High-Impact and Generative AI

• The legislation defines high-impact AI and generative AI as regulatory targets to mitigate risks such as misuse and technical limitations.
• Key obligations include:
  • Ensuring transparency
  • Maintaining safety standards
  • Establishing accountability for businesses

---

When Will It Take Effect?

The Basic Act on AI is set to take effect in January 2026, after a one-year grace period following approval in the Cabinet meeting and proclamation.

---

What’s Next?

The government is prioritizing follow-up actions, including the development of subordinate regulations and guidelines, to ensure the Act integrates seamlessly into the market. These measures will solidify Korea’s leadership in AI innovation and governance, balancing rapid technological advancements with safety and trust.

---

CONTACT US

📧  forest.lee@gca-kr.com

GCA Global Website | Korea KC Certification