South Korean citizens will be using digital IDs instead of traditional resident cards as proof of identity by 2024. It will be secured by blockchain technology and will work in tandem with smartphones. This will make it easier to verify one’s identity on the web. Digital ID verification will also eliminate the need to send copies of certificates or log on via authentication codes [i]
According to a Bloomberg report the benefits of the digital ID are:
- Facilitating online medical services without visiting doctors in person
- Entering hotel rooms by just scanning smartphones over kiosks
- Preventing ID forgery and theft
- Approving contracts remotely without the need to sign them
- Enhanced fast-track boarding processes at airports
The plan also limits the government’s access to an individual’s smartphone. Including whose digital ID was used, and how and where they are used. This is made possible because the system will rely on decentralized identity, a feature of blockchain technology.
This is not the first time South Korea has ventured into digital IDs. A pilot program for mobile driver’s license was launched last January 2022. The city of Busan also has a “B Pass” which can be used as identification within the city.
The country has been using the South Korean Identity Card which contains a unique 13-digit Resident Registration Number (RRN). It is issued to citizens upon reaching the age of 17.
To discourage illegal activities the RRN was collected by websites until August 2012. The practice has been prohibited due to concerns about abuse and data privacy,[ii]
The idea of not worrying if you have left your plastic ID at home sounds like a good idea. Imagine going straight to your pre-booked hotel room with just your digital ID-enabled smartphone. Going through hotel checks in a jiffy is also a great convenience. Online transactions can also be completed without revealing sensitive information or the need to send copies of certificates.
This development is not surprising, since South Korea is the 3rd most technologically advanced country. It is also estimated that the crypto assets held in the country are worth $55 Trillion won or $38.2 Billion dollars. The success of this program in the country will further prove that blockchain technology can address concerns about data privacy and security, which in turn will encourage other countries to follow.
[i] https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/south-korea-aims-to-boost-economy-with-digital-id-on-blockchain-1.1833370
[ii] https://carnegieendowment.org/2021/08/17/technologies-of-trust-online-authentication-and-data-access-control-in-korea-pub-85163
Image: Unplash (edited)
