South Korean Regulator Fines Meta for Unauthorized Collection of Sensitive User Data

South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) has fined Meta Platforms, Inc., the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, 21.6 billion won ($15.6 million) for collecting and sharing sensitive data from nearly a million users without consent. This is the latest in a series of global regulatory actions aimed at reinforcing user privacy standards.

According to PIPC, Meta violated South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Act by collecting private data, including political preferences, religious beliefs, and same-sex relationships. This information was reportedly shared with around 4,000 advertisers, who used it to create highly targeted ads addressing issues such as gender identity and North Korean defectors—topics considered sensitive under South Korean law.

Data Privacy and Accountability: The Global Implications

The PIPC emphasized that Meta’s actions breached South Korean data laws, which require explicit consent from users when processing sensitive information. To prevent future violations, the commission has ordered Meta to establish clear legal guidelines for data collection, strengthen data security measures, and ensure prompt responses to users seeking access to their personal information.

This move reflects South Korea’s robust stance on digital privacy rights, echoing a broader trend as governments around the world increasingly demand accountability from global technology giants. It also serves as a reminder for tech companies to implement more transparent data practices and prioritize compliance with local regulations to maintain user trust.

With data privacy gaining international attention, Meta’s recent fine in South Korea reinforces the importance of respecting users’ rights, no matter the jurisdiction, signaling a strong warning for other digital giants operating across diverse regulatory environments.