4 in 10 Koreans use generative AI: survey

Nearly four in 10 Koreans have used generative artificial intelligence (AI) such as ChatGPT and Gemini, a survey showed Thursday, but a persistent digital divide sidelines the majority due to a lack of digital literacy. A survey by the Korea Media and Communications Commission (KMCC) showed that 38.9 percent of respondents have used generative AI. The figure is up 14.9 percentage points from 24 percent in 2024, according to the commission's 2025 User Panel Survey in Intelligent Information Society. The survey polled 4,324 internet users nationwide aged 18 to 72 who use smartphones at least once a day. Users spent an average of 49.6 minutes per day on the platforms. The most common use for generative AI is information search, with 86 percent citing its efficiency. Meanwhile, 72.6 percent of users said using the technology saves time, followed by educational purposes at 68.2 percent, and solving complex problems and supporting daily tasks, both at 64.8 percent. However, concerns over the risks of generative AI intensified, rising 6 to 10 percentage points from a year earlier. Fraud and cr