AI Basic Act Implementation Triggers 172 Transparency Queries
Since the implementation of the AI Basic Act last month, over 170 inquiries have been received, primarily concerning how to indicate whether a product utilizes AI.
Overview of Inquiries
The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea AI Software Industry Association announced on February 3 that a total of 172 consultations were received over a 10-day period, from January 22 to January 31. This inquiry surge followed the opening of the AI Basic Act support desk on January 22. The breakdown of inquiries included 78 phone consultations and 94 online inquiries.
The establishment of the support desk aims to reduce confusion stemming from the AI Basic Act’s implementation by providing necessary consultation and guidance to businesses and users alike.
Nature of the Queries
Among the phone consultations, many were simple inquiries about the online registration process and the obligation to ensure AI transparency. Notably, online inquiries revealed that questions regarding AI transparency obligations were the most common, accounting for 53 cases or 56.4% of total inquiries. This obligation mandates that AI businesses inform users when they are utilizing an AI-based service and that the results are generated by AI.
Common questions included:
- “Does the service I am currently using or providing fall under the obligation to ensure transparency?”
- “What are the specific methods for indicating transparency?”
Concerns Regarding High-Impact AI
Additionally, 17% of inquiries sought clarification on whether the services they provide fall under the category of high-impact AI. Questions regarding key definitions, such as the distinction between AI businesses and users, also comprised 10.6% of the inquiries.
Future Plans
The government plans to distribute a Q&A casebook in March, summarizing the frequently asked questions received through the support desk. This initiative aims to further clarify the obligations and procedures established by the AI Basic Act, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and compliant.