Personal Information Commission Launches Investigation into 'Worldcoin' Iris Data Collection

The Personal Information Protection Commission announced on the 29th that it will begin an investigation following complaints regarding the collection and processing of personal information (such as iris data) by Worldcoin.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Worldcoin is a cryptocurrency created by Sam Altman, the founder and CEO of OpenAI. Altman argues that identity verification is necessary in an era where it becomes impossible to distinguish between AI and humans online. To this end, users register their identity through iris recognition using Worldcoin's identity verification device called the 'Orb,' and in return, they receive Worldcoin.

The Personal Information Protection Commission confirmed that Worldcoin affiliates are currently collecting facial and iris recognition data at about 10 locations within South Korea.

The Commission will investigate the overall collection and processing of sensitive information under the Personal Information Protection Act, including the overseas transfer of personal data, and if violations are found, will take measures according to relevant laws and regulations. If legal violations are confirmed as a result of the investigation, penalties such as fines or corrective orders may be imposed.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.