South Korea's Cultural Heritage Agency Website Leaks Personal Data of 900 Dealers

The Cultural Heritage Administration (CHA) has confirmed a data breach exposing the personal information of around 900 individuals involved in the trade of cultural heritage items. The exposure occurred through an attached file on the agency's website, which contained a list of licensed dealers for 2024.

Details leaked include names, addresses, mobile phone numbers, dates of birth, and information on whether they had submitted their trading status reports. The CHA became aware of the breach on April 4th and promptly removed the offending file from its public information board. The agency stated that it is currently assessing the extent of any resulting damage.

"We are notifying the affected individuals," said a CHA official. "We are thoroughly reviewing our procedures for checking posted materials and are strengthening personal information protection training and internal management systems to prevent recurrence."

The incident raises concerns about data security protocols within government agencies responsible for sensitive information. The CHA has pledged to reinforce its internal controls and employee training to ensure such a breach does not happen again.

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We are notifying the affected individuals. We are thoroughly reviewing our procedures for checking posted materials and are strengthening personal information protection training and internal management systems to prevent recurrence.