Researchers linked the AI chatbot to a Chinese state-owned telecommunications company, which has been banned from operating in the U.S.

Governments across Asia are cracking down on DeepSeek, amid growing concerns that the Chinese AI chatbot could compromise national security. South Korea is the latest to block DeepSeek's access to various governmental departments.

DeepSeek emerged in January, surprising many in the technology industry with its capabilities, which reportedly come close to rivals but at a far lower cost.