South Korean president orders probe into data leaks across financial industry

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung ordered a thorough investigation and response measures after a series of personal data leak incidents affecting banks, financial firms, and public agencies. The presidential office said the Financial Services Commission (FSC) held an emergency meeting on Sunday with regulators, industry associations, and executives from impacted institutions, emphasizing heightened vigilance. FSC Chairman Lee Eog-weon said authorities cannot rule out artificial intelligence being used in the attacks and called for an “AI attacks defended by AI” approach, alongside broader cybersecurity upgrades. The FSC said on-site probes began after a Shinhan Bank breach reported on September 30 and were expanded to other incidents, including reports involving KB Kookmin, Hana, and Woori. Regulators are also sharing attack details across the sector.