On the 6th (local time), AFP reported that TikTok plans to invest 1 billion euros (about 1.589 trillion won) to construct a data center in Finland. TikTok explained that this is a measure to enhance security within Europe.
TikTok noted, "Once the data center is operational, user data from Europe will be stored in security zones within Europe," adding that it will protect the data of 175 million European users.
Regarding the choice of Finland as the location for the data center, TikTok explained that it was due to the country's "strong digital infrastructure, clean energy, and skilled technical workforce."
Previously, the European Union (EU) imposed a penalty surcharge of 530 million euros (about 840 billion won) on TikTok for transferring user data from Europe to China. The fine levied on TikTok is the second-largest in EU history.
According to the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), personal data within the EU can only be transferred outside the region if certain protective measures are implemented by the company. However, EU authorities determined that TikTok did not adequately protect the personal data of European users.
TikTok plans to appeal the EU's decision.