메타버스 환경에서 개인정보 보호 방안 연구

As technology advances, it is inevitable that a new form of cyberspace will emerge, even if it is not explicitly termed as the “metaverse.” This new cyberspace may present novel challenges, some unprecedented and others pushing familiar issues to unforeseen dimensions. Among these challenges, it is crucial to proactively address those we have encountered before. For instance, as metaverse services become more immersive, there may be conflicts between service provision and personal information protection due to extensive data collection. Furthermore, the introduction of new devices such as wearables and portable image processing tools could pose privacy concerns of a previously unexplored magnitude. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the necessity of preemptive measures for personal information protection within the metaverse environment. Specifically, it delves into the required legal adaptations by conducting a comparative analysis of Europe and the United States, which are renowned for their advanced approaches to personal information protection. Additionally, the study explores the foundational principles of personal information protection, with a particular focus on the right to self-determination of personal data as enshrined in the Constitution. Through this examination, it aims to outline directions for shaping our legal framework concerning personal information protection in the metaverse environment.