South Korea Blocks DeepSeek AI Over Data Privacy Concerns

 Government and Police Restrict Access Amid Security Fears

South Korea’s government and police have blocked access to DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) startup, due to concerns over data privacy and national security. The move follows the company’s failure to respond to inquiries from South Korea’s data watchdog regarding its user information management practices.

Why Was DeepSeek Blocked?

🚨 Key Reasons for the Ban:

• Failure to respond to South Korea’s data protection agency regarding data management practices.

• National security concerns related to potential leaks of sensitive information through AI-generated content.

• Growing international scrutiny, as Italy, France, and Australia have also imposed restrictions on DeepSeek.

📌 Government Actions:

• The South Korean Defense Ministry blocked DeepSeek on all military-related PCs with internet access.

• The National Police Agency and Trade Ministry implemented temporary access restrictions.

• Other ministries, including Finance, Unification, and Foreign Affairs, also blocked the app or took security measures.

DeepSeek’s AI and Global Concerns

DeepSeek launched its R1 chatbot in January 2025, claiming to rival major US AI models at a fraction of the investment. However, its data collection practices have drawn scrutiny worldwide.

🔎 Other countries taking action against DeepSeek:

• Italy launched an investigation and blocked DeepSeek from processing user data.

• Australia banned the app from all government devices over security concerns.

• US officials raised concerns about the surge in AI competition from China, warning of potential data misuse.

South Korean AI expert Kim Jong-hwa acknowledged the political tensions between the US and China, but said banning DeepSeek was still a reasonable precaution.

🎙️ Kim stated:

“Given that China operates under a communist regime, I question whether they consider security issues as much as OpenAI does when developing innovative technologies.”

China’s Response

Beijing strongly criticized the move, calling it “unreasonable suppression” and vowing to protect Chinese businesses from political interference.

💬 Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun:

“China has always opposed the generalization of national security and the politicization of economic, trade, and technological issues.”

Impact on AI Competition and the Global Tech Industry

DeepSeek’s rapid rise is reshaping the AI industry, challenging US-based OpenAI and Google’s Gemini AI. The company reportedly uses H800 chips—allowed under past US trade rules but now restricted under export controls.

Meanwhile, South Korea is increasing investments in semiconductors and AI, with a new $23.5 billion funding package aimed at keeping the country at the forefront of AI technology.

⚡ Acting South Korean President Choi Sang-mok warned:

“The global AI competition is evolving from a simple infrastructure race to a more complex battle of software capabilities.”

As AI development intensifies, privacy concerns, geopolitical tensions, and tech rivalry will continue shaping the future of global AI regulation.

Amorim on Rashford Exit: “He Doesn’t See Football the Way I See It”

 Man United Boss Reflects on Rashford’s Struggles After Loan Move to Aston Villa

Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has admitted that Marcus Rashford struggled to fit into his tactical vision before the England international was sent out on loan to Aston Villa.

Speaking ahead of United’s FA Cup fourth-round clash against Leicester City, Amorim suggested that Rashford’s playing style and approach to training did not align with his philosophy.

🎙️ Amorim stated:

“I couldn’t put Marcus to see the way you’re supposed to play football and to train the way I see it. And sometimes, you have one player that is really good with one coach, and the same player with another coach is different.”

Rashford’s Struggles Under Amorim

The 27-year-old forward had a frustrating spell under Amorim, falling out of favour and spending seven weeks on the sidelines before sealing a January transfer window loan move to Aston Villa.

🚨 Key Issues Reported:

• Rashford’s work rate in training did not meet Amorim’s expectations.

• The manager prioritizes a high-pressing, tactically disciplined style that clashed with Rashford’s natural attacking instincts.

• Lack of on-field chemistry between Rashford and Amorim’s preferred attacking setup.

Amorim, however, wished Rashford well and hoped he could thrive under Aston Villa boss Unai Emery.

🔴 He added:

“I just wish the best to Rashford and to Unai Emery, and they can connect because he’s a very good player.”

United Focused on Salvaging Season

With Rashford’s exit behind him, Amorim emphasized that his primary focus is on improving Manchester United’s poor season.

📌 Amorim stressed:

“We are fighting for our jobs until the summer. Thankfully, Marcus is in Birmingham now with Unai, so you can take these questions to another coach. We are just focused on our players at the moment.”

United fans will now be eager to see whether Rashford can rediscover his form at Aston Villa and whether Amorim’s bold squad decisions will help turn around United’s struggling campaign.

Veteran Nollywood Actor Columbus Irisoanga Passes Away

 Tributes Pour in for Respected Actor and Lecturer

Veteran Nollywood actor Columbus Irisoanga, widely known for his captivating portrayal of native doctor roles, has passed away. His death was announced on Thursday, February 6, 2025, by fellow Nollywood star Hilda Dokubo, who shared the sad news on Instagram.

Hilda Dokubo Confirms Irisoanga’s Passing

Dokubo expressed her grief in a heartfelt post, mourning the loss of yet another industry icon.

📌 Her post read:

“Our uncle Coli @colu_mbusirisoanga has gone to be with the Lord. Ikoli eh dein na mu. There can’t be a shortage of angels in heaven that the few here are called home like this na! This one is heavy on Uniport, Rivers State, Nollywood.”

The news has sent shockwaves through the Nollywood community, with many colleagues and fans paying tribute to the late actor.

A Respected Nollywood Star and Theatre Lecturer

Beyond his contributions to Nollywood, Irisoanga was a senior lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT).

He was known for training and mentoring young actors while still actively participating in the Nigerian film industry.

🎬 Notable Works:

• “Issakaba” (2003): One of his most famous roles, where he played a pivotal character in the cult classic.

• Countless other Nollywood films where he specialized in roles as a traditional priest, elder, and wise figure.

Tributes from Nollywood and the Theatre Community

Fans and colleagues have continued to express their condolences, remembering Irisoanga for his impactful work in Nollywood and his dedication to shaping young talents in the academic world.

🔹 A colleague wrote: “He was a rare gem in the industry, bringing authenticity to every role. Nollywood has lost a legend.”

🔹 Another tribute stated: “A teacher, an actor, a legend. Rest in power, Columbus Irisoanga.”

A Great Loss to Nollywood

The cause of his death has not been disclosed, but his passing marks another heartbreaking loss for Nollywood and the Rivers State entertainment industry.

As the Nigerian film industry continues to mourn, Irisoanga’s legacy as both an actor and educator will remain deeply cherished.

May his soul rest in peace. 🕊️

China Condemns US Trade Restrictions as Economic Tensions Escalate

 Beijing Accuses Washington of ‘Unreasonable Suppression’ Amid Postal Service Halt and Tariffs

Tensions between China and the United States have intensified as both countries impose a new wave of tariffs and trade restrictions, further deepening their ongoing economic standoff.

In the latest development, Beijing slammed Washington on Wednesday after the United States Postal Service (USPS) announced a suspension of parcel shipments from China and Hong Kong, a move that could significantly impact major Chinese e-commerce giants Temu and Shein.

US Tightens Trade Measures Against China

The US government has been scrutinizing China’s growing dominance in the e-commerce sector, particularly the surge in low-value shipments entering the country duty-free.

🔹 USPS Suspends China and Hong Kong Parcels: No official reason was provided, but analysts believe it is tied to growing concerns over security risks, intellectual property violations, and unfair competition.

🔹 Removal of Duty-Free Exemption: The US scrapped the “de minimis” exemption, which previously allowed imports under $800 to enter the country without duties. The policy, often used by retailers like Shein and Temu, contributed to an estimated $1.36 billion in imports in 2024.

🔹 Broader Trade War Measures: Washington has been tightening regulations on Chinese products amid allegations of trade imbalances and national security risks.

China Hits Back with Retaliatory Measures

Beijing strongly condemned the US moves, calling them an attempt at economic suppression.

📌 China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, stated:

“The US is politicizing trade and economic issues, using them as tools to unfairly suppress Chinese companies. We will take necessary measures to protect our interests.”

📌 Beijing Announces New Tariffs on US Goods

In a direct counterattack, China imposed new levies on US energy products, vehicles, and equipment, affecting an estimated $20 billion worth of American exports—about 12% of total US imports into China.

Global Impact: EU Joins in Tightening Trade Rules

The European Commission also announced plans to impose new fees on e-commerce imports, particularly targeting low-cost Chinese goods flooding the EU market.

🌍 Implications of the EU’s move:

• Designed to combat harmful and counterfeit products

• May lead to higher prices for consumers

• Increases scrutiny on Chinese online retailers

What’s Next? Trade Talks Remain Uncertain

Former US President Donald Trump had initially hinted at potential trade negotiations with Chinese President Xi Jinping, but on Tuesday, he stated that he was in “no rush” to hold discussions.

📌 Trump’s latest tariffs affect over $450 billion worth of Chinese goods, a far greater impact than China’s $20 billion retaliatory measures.

Conclusion: Growing Uncertainty in US-China Relations

With escalating trade restrictions, tariffs, and policy changes, businesses on both sides face uncertainty and disruptions. The global economy could see further price increases and supply chain shifts as both superpowers battle for economic dominance.

Nigerian Man to Be Deported After Serving 75-Month Jail Term for Fraud in the US

 US Court Convicts Edwin Okoronkwo and Wife for Catfishing Scam

The United States Department of Justice has announced that a Nigerian citizen, Edwin Okoronkwo, will be deported after serving a 75-month prison sentence for his role in a fraudulent scheme that targeted unsuspecting Americans.

Okoronkwo, alongside his wife, Julie Okoronkwo, used stolen identities and online scams to impersonate high-ranking US military officials and deceive victims into sending them money.

Details of the Fraudulent Scheme

🔹 Modus Operandi: The couple used false social media profiles to lure victims into believing they were dealing with US military officers on overseas missions.

🔹 Role of Julie Okoronkwo: She frequently called victims to reinforce the scam’s authenticity.

🔹 Use of Stolen Identities: Julie, who worked at a hospital, illegally accessed personal identification details such as Social Security numbers and driver’s licenses to further the fraud.

🔹 Money Transfers: Victims were tricked into sending funds via the United States Postal Service, FedEx, and UPS.

Court Sentencing and Restitution Orders

🏛 Sentencing Judge: US District Judge Brian C. Buescher

⚖️ Edwin Okoronkwo: 75 months in prison, a $342,535 restitution order, three years of supervised release, and mandatory deportation.

⚖️ Julie Okoronkwo: 25 months in prison, convicted on January 10, 2025.

At Edwin’s sentencing, Judge Buescher described the fraud as a “tragedy for the victims”, emphasizing the emotional and financial damage suffered by those deceived.

Implications and Final Thoughts

This case highlights the growing crackdown on online fraud and identity theft in the US, with authorities committed to prosecuting and deporting individuals engaged in such crimes. It serves as a strong warning to fraudulent actors exploiting unsuspecting victims online.