디지털시대의 포용의 의미와 향후 과제

The digital transformation of both the nation and society is accelerating at a rapid pace. As artificial intelligence technologies such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek continue to advance, tangible and profound changes are being experienced across various aspects of daily life. These emerging technologies not only enhance operational efficiency but also significantly assist individuals by supplementing and improving their capabilities through intelligent information services and devices, even without the aid of skilled professionals in specific domains. In response, the Korean government has designated such AI technologies as national strategic technologies and has actively supported R&D and industrial development while promoting public acceptance through various initiatives. However, like all things, digital technology has both light and shadow. The rapid digital transformation across all sectors has also resulted in several negative consequences. For instance, while many services were traditionally available offiine, the increasing reliance on digital technologies in healthcare, banking, and social welfare services has created significant challenges for users depending on their digital literacy and competency. Of particular concern is the discontinuation or restriction of existing offiine services in both public and private domains, which forces individuals—especially those lacking sufficient digital literacy or skills, including vulnerable groups—to endure considerable inconvenience. As digital technologies rapidly advance and become more embedded in society, it is crucial to recognize that adaptation to the digital environment can vary widely depending on individual circumstances and capabilities, potentially exacerbating digital inequality. Elderly individuals and persons with disabilities have long experienced difficulties in accessing and using digital devices and software. In response to these hardships, some local governments have initiated training programs aimed at enhancing the digital capabilities of socially vulnerable populations. Likewise, private enterprises have voluntarily developed and distributed kiosks designed with the needs of older adults and persons with disabilities in mind. In this context, the Digital Inclusion Act, enacted by the 22nd National Assembly in December 2024, is expected to play a significant role in helping digitally vulnerable populations adapt to the digital society and improve their quality of life. Prior to this, the Framework Act on Intelligent Informatization had significant limitations in addressing discrimination and inequality in practical digital use and access, thus falling short in realizing true digital inclusion. This paper begins by examining the core components of digital inclusion policy—namely, the definition of digital inclusion, the elimination of the digital divide, and the enhancement of digital competence (Section II). It then explores the constitutional implications of digital inequality (Section III), followed by an analysis of the key provisions of the Digital Inclusion Act, including guaranteed access and support for digital technologies, and concludes by suggesting several areas for improvement (Section IV). Finally, the paper summarizes the key issues surrounding digital inclusion and discusses future directions for inclusive practices in the digital era (Section V).