Republic of Korea: Bill on Development of Artificial Intelligence and Establishment of Trust-Based Foundations (Bill no. DD20131) including AI authority governance enters into force

On 22 January 2026, the Bill on Development of Artificial Intelligence and Establishment of Trust-Based Foundations (Bill no. DD20131) enters into force. The Bill establishes a National AI Policy Centre, the AI Policy Centre, the AI Safety Research Institute, the Civilian Voluntary AI Ethics Committee, and the Trust Foundation for AI. The National AI Committee is tasked with matters related to policies for the promotion of the AI industry, the research and development strategy in the AI field, the AI-related investment strategy, AI data centres, and promoting international cooperation and usage in industrial sectors. The AI Policy Centre is designated to share its expertise in the development of master plans, AI-related measures, and the research and analysis of the impact on society, trends, and social and cultural changes. The AI Safety Research Institute is tasked with defining and analysing safety risks, research, evaluation criteria and methods, AI safety technology, and standardisation research. The Civilian Voluntary AI Ethics Committee is designated to ensure compliance with the Ethics Principles.