The city of Seoul has begun amending ordinances to institutionalize the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Seoul Metropolitan Council member Kim Dong-wook (People Power Party, Gangnam 5) announced that he had proposed a partial amendment to the ‘Seoul Special City Future Strategic Tasks Discovery and Fostering Ordinance’ at the 329th interim session.
The amendment reflects concerns about the potential infringement of citizens’ rights and interests due to the spread of advanced technologies such as AI, autonomous driving, and big data, and specifies the ‘ethical use of AI technology and the response to social responsibilities’ within the scope of Seoul’s future strategic tasks.
The ordinance includes the establishment of ethical principles and responsibility standards, prevention of algorithm bias, criteria for impact assessment of high-risk technologies, personal information protection, and the encouragement of ethical use in both public and private sectors. It also allows for consultation with experts, relevant institutions, and civil society when formulating policies.
Kim stated, “While the convenience brought about by technological advancement is welcome, there needs to be an institutional standard to ensure it operates on public interest and social responsibility,” and added, “Through Seoul, where technology and ethics coexist, we will lay the foundation for becoming a global innovation city.”
The proposed ordinance is expected to be presented to the plenary session after a committee review. If passed, it will enable Seoul to institutionalize ethical standards and protect citizen rights when advancing AI policies.