Statement by the NHRCK Chairperson on the 14th Information Protection Day
– Information Protection: A Foundation of Human Rights in the Digital Age –
Strengthening Trusted and Secure Information Management Systems is Essential –
□ On the occasion of the 14th Information Protection Day, observed on July 9, Chairperson Ahn Chang-ho of the National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK) issues the following statement, emphasizing the serious threat that the rapid advancement of digital technologies—such as artificial intelligence—can pose to fundamental rights, including the right to informational self-determination, and ultimately to human dignity.
□ “Information Protection Day” was established in 2012 as a legally designated national observance to raise public awareness of the importance of information security and promote a safe digital environment, in response to repeated cyberattacks and large-scale information breaches.
□ In today’s world, where digital technologies such as AI and big data permeate every aspect of daily life, personal information is no longer just data—it constitutes a core element of a person’s life and identity. The value of personal data has grown exponentially, but so too have the risks. As the use of data expands, cyber threats and attacks have become increasingly diverse and sophisticated. Moreover, the potential for indefinite reuse of data through technological means poses growing threats to individual rights.
□ A recent breach involving SK Telecom’s USIM (Universal Subscriber Identity Module) data—affecting nearly 25 million subscribers, nearly half the national population—caused widespread public concern. Beyond this, ransomware and other forms of cyberattacks and data leaks continue to occur frequently throughout society.
○ These incidents are not merely technical issues. They constitute serious violations of fundamental rights, including the right to privacy, freedom of communication, and personal dignity. When security measures are inadequate and information is stored or used indiscriminately, the potential for repeated violations of citizens’ rights remains ever-present.
□ The Korean Constitution provides the legal foundation for information protection by guaranteeing the dignity and value of human beings, the secrecy and freedom of private life, and the freedom of communication. The United Nations also emphasizes the right to privacy and data protection in Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
□ Information protection is not simply about developing new technologies. The key lies in ensuring that all systems and services that apply these technologies are operated on a foundation of robust security. It is essential to address security vulnerabilities from the early stages of system design and rigorously adhere to basic security principles, including data minimization, access control, and encryption.
□ Accordingly, the State, public institutions, and private companies must take responsibility to ensure that rights are not infringed due to shortcomings in information management systems. They must reexamine their information protection frameworks and enhance their practical response capabilities. Strengthening trusted and robust information security systems through continuous monitoring, assessment, and advanced response mechanisms is essential to earning the public’s trust.
□ The NHRCK will continue to fulfill its responsibilities by closely monitoring the state of information protection to ensure that it serves as a solid foundation for human rights in the digital age. We will work to promote improvement and prevent the exclusion of security-vulnerable groups within the digital environment.
July 9, 2025
Ahn Chang-ho
Chairperson, National Human Rights Commission of Korea
