South Korea issues digital IDs secured by blockchain [Video]

South Korea is testing a digital identity card that digitizes a system that has been used for nearly six decades, with blockchain being used to enhance security.

According to local reports, the new digital identity will be tested in nine regions, including the cities of Sejong and Yeosu and Geochang and Yeongnam counties. It will be available to all residents in these regions aged 17 or older. 

The new system digitizes a national ID card system that has been in use since 1968. However, in 2021, the South Korean government introduced three new digital identification cards: a mobile driver’s license, a veterans’ registration card and an overseas ID card. 

Digital IDs are becoming increasingly popular globally as more governments continue to digitalize their services. However, cybersecurity remains a daunting challenge. With identity linked to virtually every facet of the citizens’ daily lives, governments must ensure that it’s adequately protected in an era where AI is …