CAIDP calls for a focus on protecting children as Korea’s Framework Act on AI takes effect

The Center for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP) has shared recommendations to the Republic of Korea on AI policy as the country’s Framework Act on AI comes into effect this week.

CAIPD says it “recognizes the Republic of Korea’s leading position in advancing trustworthy AI” and commends its endorsement of the OECD AI Principles. The principles were set out in 2018 and promote the use of innovative and trustworthy AI that respects human rights and democratic values.

The organization provided recommendations to Korea on the Framework Act on AI, calling on the country’s National Information Society Agency (NIA) to take a number of steps including prohibiting AI systems that conflict with human rights and the rule of law.

CAIPD also called on the NIA to act against practices putting children at risk and place protections on children’s wellbeing and mental health. 

“CAIPD urges the Agency to focus on enforcing rules, principles, and prohibitions to tackle practices that put children at increased risk, such as behavioral profiling, targeting advertising,” the organization shared in a statement.

“As generative AI is adopted more widely in digital services directed toward children, the risk grows as children are hyper-targeted based on their behaviours and preferences, intensifying hazards to their mental, emotional and physical wellbeing,” the CAIPD warned.

The organization cited the OECD’s recent report highlighting the risks for children as well as a lawsuit filed by US parents alleging that AI had played a role in their son’s suicide. OpenAI says it has introduced new safety measures and protections for teen users. 

The CAIPD adds: “We thank the National Information Society Agency of South Korea for considering our recommendations and giving us the opportunity to respond to the public consultation. We welcome continued dialogue.”