South Korea’s Initiative on AI Ethics Principles
On March 13, 2026, South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT announced the formation of an expert advisory group tasked with drafting new Artificial Intelligence Ethics Principles. This initiative aims to establish a safe and trustworthy AI society, in alignment with the AI Basic Act.
Objectives of the New Principles
The upcoming principles will serve as comprehensive guidelines to foster human-centered and responsible development and use of AI technologies. These guidelines will consider both the positive and negative impacts that AI may have on society, ensuring a balanced approach to technological advancement.
Background and Rationale
Since late 2020, South Korea has relied on the National Guidelines for AI Ethics. However, as the global AI landscape continues to evolve, there is a pressing need to adopt updated principles that reflect current realities and ethical considerations. The government’s decision to initiate this overhaul emphasizes its commitment to adapting to changes in AI technology and its societal implications.
Timeline for Implementation
The Ministry plans to unveil a draft of the new ethics principles by mid-April, followed by a public consultation process. The final version is expected to be adopted by June, facilitating a collaborative approach to shaping the future of AI ethics in the nation.
This proactive stance by South Korea highlights the importance of ethical frameworks in the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence, setting a precedent for other nations to follow in creating responsible AI practices.
