International · Technology policy

South Korea's AI Basic Act enters force with grace period

South Korea's AI Basic Act and enforcement decree took effect January 22, 2026, with a grace period of at least one year for most investigations and fines.

Startup founders planning beside a whiteboard.

South Korea's AI Basic Act and its enforcement decree took effect January 22, 2026. The Ministry of Science and ICT says most investigations and fines will be deferred for at least one year, except in cases involving serious harm.