SEOUL, President Yoon Suk Yeol called on the international community Monday to collectively find ways to promote democracy and protect the safety of individuals in the use of new digital technologies. Yoon issued the call during the opening of the ministerial conference of the 3rd Summit for Democracy, a gathering hosted by South Korea this year under the theme "Democracy for Future Generations." "With a strict sense of duty, we must share our experiences and pool our wisdom in order that artificial intelligence (AI) and new digital technologies can promote democracy, and also protect the safety of individuals and society," the president said, noting the ministerial meeting, under the theme "AI, digital technologies and democracy," will offer an opportunity to explore both the conveniences and challenges of digital technologies. "AI and the innovation of digital technology are realizing in the real world humanity's imaginations beyond the limits of time and space," he said. "On the other hand, disinformat ion and false information helped by AI and digital technology are not only violating individuals' freedom and human rights, but also threatening the democratic system." Yoon recalled that in September last year, he unveiled South Korea's Digital Bill of Rights in New York, outlining the values and principles of a digital society that helps expand people's freedoms. "I said the benefits of digital technologies must be enjoyed evenly by everyone, and that they should not threaten the safety of individuals and society," he said. "I also said we must constantly strive for digital innovation for the sustainable prosperity of humanity, and that the international community must band together for AI and digital technologies to contribute to world peace and prosperity." The Summit for Democracy was launched in 2021 and has been led by the United States with the aim of strengthening democracy and confronting authoritarianism around the world. The leaders' plenary is scheduled to be held virtually Wednesday evening, the final day of the three-day summit, with Yoon, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Kenyan President William Ruto opening the meeting. Source: Yonhap News Agency