DeepSeek’s AI Chief Warns of Job Threats, Urges Industry Action

UPDATE: In a startling revelation, senior researcher Chen Deli of DeepSeek has expressed grave concerns about the potential negative impact of artificial intelligence on society. Speaking at the government-organized World Internet Conference in Wuzhen, Chen emphasized the need for tech companies to act as “defenders” against the societal challenges posed by AI advancements.

This announcement comes amidst a transformative year for DeepSeek, the emerging AI powerhouse based in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Earlier this year, the company made headlines by launching its cutting-edge large language model, DeepSeek-R1, which has since attracted significant attention and integration from various Chinese firms seeking algorithmic independence.

Chen’s warning contrasts sharply with his earlier optimism expressed in January 2023, when he celebrated his company’s breakthrough in AI technology. Now, he states, “I’m extremely positive about the technology but I view the impact it could have on society negatively.” His remarks reflect a growing unease within the tech community regarding AI’s ability to displace jobs over the next decade.

At the February 2023 meeting between Liang Wenfeng, DeepSeek’s founder, and President Xi Jinping, the discussion centered on the country’s commitment to advancing AI without foreign dependency. This strategy, termed “algorithmic sovereignty,” aims to position China as a leader in AI technology while minimizing external influence.

Chen’s recent statements align with Xi’s call during the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum for the establishment of a global governing body for AI, emphasizing the need for cooperation to ensure AI serves as a “public good.” This urgent dialogue highlights the significant societal implications of AI, as companies like DeepSeek grapple with their responsibilities in the face of rapid technological advancement.

As AI technology progresses, the stakes for employment and societal stability grow higher. Chen warned, “Society could face a massive challenge,” underscoring the critical role tech companies must play in mitigating potential disasters. His perspective resonates beyond the walls of DeepSeek, as it reflects a broader concern permeating the global tech landscape.

The implications of this discourse are profound. As AI continues to evolve, both developers and regulators must navigate the delicate balance between innovation and societal impact. Chen’s call for a unified approach to address these challenges may be a crucial step in ensuring the technology’s benefits are equitably distributed.

With AI’s rapid integration into various sectors, the urgency for a strategic response has never been greater. Stakeholders, from tech firms to policymakers, are urged to engage in this vital conversation to safeguard the future of work and society.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the world watches how DeepSeek and other tech giants respond to these pressing concerns.