outh Korea’s ‘AI Basic Act’ took effect on January 22, 2026, marking the world’s first comprehensive legislation covering the entire AI sector. The government will establish an AI implementation plan every three years to promote the industry while ensuring reliability through obligations for ‘high-impact AI’ and mandatory usage labels. To avoid stifling early-stage growth, a ‘soft landing’ strategy has been adopted, deferring punitive measures such as fines for over a year.
