South Korea is investigating a series of cyberattacks on commercial banks, with President Lee Jae Myung saying that AI models are believed to have been involved in some of the incidents.
“In some hacking incidents, signs have emerged of AI being used, causing considerable public concern and anxiety,” Lee said during a cabinet meeting. “Please establish the circumstances swiftly and clearly, and concentrate personnel and resources on minimising the damage.”
Police have launched a full-scale investigation after the attacks reportedly exposed customers’ personal information. Shinhan Bank, KB Kookmin Bank and other banks reported cyberattacks, according to the Financial Services Commission (FSC). Hana Bank and Woori Bank were also reportedly affected.
Authorities have not yet revealed which AI tools may have been used or the full extent of the breaches.
On Sunday, FSC Chairman Lee Eog-weon held an emergency meeting with financial industry associations, regulators and executives from affected institutions. He warned that the financial sector must respond with the highest level of vigilance.
The developments come as concerns grow over the use of AI in cyberattacks. In September, Australia said an OpenAI agent had breached a government health data portal in June and gained unauthorised access to files. The incident could be the first known case of an AI agent hacking a government website.
An artificial intelligence research firm also said last week that AI agents had attempted to hack a Canadian government website. The attempt was described as unsuccessful, and Canada said there was no indication that its systems had been compromised.
South Korea’s latest bank breaches have renewed calls for cybersecurity measures designed for the AI era, as authorities continue to investigate how the technology may have been involved.
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