Deepfake sexual crimes target women, especially celebrities. Legal actions are increasing as the South Korean government addresses the issue.
September/17/2024 17:50
Deepfake (AI-based synthesis) sexual crimes have become a serious social problem. According to a report titled '2023 Status of Deepfakes' released by the American cybersecurity company Security Hero, an analysis of 95,820 videos posted on 10 websites featuring deepfake sexual content revealed that 99% of victims of deepfake obscene images are women, of which 53% are Korean. In particular, the main victims of deepfakes are celebrities such as singers and actresses. Furthermore, among the 10 most targeted individuals, 8 were Korean singers. Celebrities are easily targeted for deepfake crimes due to their exposure in various media. In response, agencies representing female celebrities have indicated they will take legal action. Kwon Eunbi, known as the goddess of 'WATERBOMB' and who has garnered significant attention, was quick to announce her response. After gaining attention from 'WATERBOMB' last year, her agency, which has suffered from sexual harassment, emphasized that they are compiling numerous posts to file a lawsuit against those who synthesized the artist's likeness to disseminate fictitious obscene photos, and investigations are ongoing with the police. Other girl group agencies have also clarified their policies. JYP Entertainment, home to TWICE, stated, 'We take the situation of deepfake videos targeting our artists very seriously. This is a clear illegal act, and we are currently collecting all related materials. We are proceeding with strong legal measures without leniency through a specialized law firm.' Additionally, agencies such as FCENM, which represents ILY:1, YG Entertainment, which represents BLACKPINK and BABY MONSTER, CUBE Entertainment, which represents (G)I-DLE, XGALX, which represents XG, HIGH-UP Entertainment, which represents STAYC, and Modhaus, which represents tripleS, as well as Big Planet Made, which represents VIVIZ and BADVILLAIN, have also announced legal actions. ADOR, which represents NewJeans, which has underage members, responded quickly, stating that those who disseminated and sold obscene photos synthesized with the members' faces had 'some confirmed criminal penalties in the first instance.' Actresses and models are not exceptions. SARAM Entertainment stated, 'Recently, there have been illegal productions and distributions of deepfake videos targeting actress Park Gyu-young and model Aileen. We will respond strictly.' Deepfake is a technology that uses AI to process parts of videos, images, and sounds to create images and videos that do not exist in reality. This technology is used in various fields, including artistic and cultural endeavors like movies, but there have been numerous cases of its misuse for criminal activities. The crime of synthesizing the faces of female celebrities to create and disseminate obscene images has been a problem for some time. Furthermore, during the reporting of the n-room incident in 2020, it was said that there was a 'deepfake room' targeting celebrities. However, completely eradicating this issue has proven difficult. Moreover, with the advancement of AI, deepfake technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated, reaching a level where synthesized images and videos no longer exhibit the unnaturalness or discomfort characteristic of such content, leading to even greater harm. Amidst this, the issue of deepfakes has resurfaced and has become a topic of concern overseas as well. Agencies are becoming more vigilant in response to this and are declaring legal actions against sexual crimes. Recognizing the seriousness of the problem, the South Korean government has decided to establish regulations punishing the possession, purchase, and viewing of non-existent images like deepfakes, and is promoting amendments to laws to raise the standards for punishment against the production and distribution of deepfakes. The police are also actively investigating and continuing strong responses, raising questions about whether they can prevent and eradicate the increasing number of victims.
Related Articles
TWICE's Tzuyu addressed a negative comment about her appearance on a paid fan communication platform, responding coolly and thanking the user. Fans reacted positively to her response, highlighting the absurdity of the comment. TWICE is currently on their sixth world tour, engaging with fans globally, including upcoming performances in major cities.
Space Oddity's K-POP Radar released its 2025 global K-POP consumption report, highlighting trends and rankings. Korea, Japan, and Indonesia remain the top three consumers, while the U.S. rises to fourth. The report shows significant shifts in artist popularity and market dynamics, indicating a growing global diversification of K-POP consumption.
Space Oddity's K-POP Radar released its 2025 global K-POP consumption report, highlighting trends and rankings. Korea, Japan, and Indonesia remain the top three consumers, while the U.S. rises to fourth. The report shows significant shifts in artist popularity and market dynamics, indicating a growing global diversification of K-POP consumption.
Lisa from BLACKPINK unveiled her self-designed outfits on Instagram, showcasing a chic black leather jacket and a striking bodysuit. Her styling emphasizes her figure and solidifies her status as a global fashion icon. Additionally, BLACKPINK will release their 3rd mini-album 'DEADLINE' on the 27th, and Lisa has been appointed as the global ambassador for Shiseido's Ultimune series, as well as starring in a new Netflix rom-com.
Dahyun of TWICE is featured on the cover of MAPS JAPAN No.8, celebrating the magazine's 20th anniversary. The issue includes a 10-page fashion portrait showcasing her in avant-garde styles by Comme des Garçons. Dahyun expresses her joy in celebrating this milestone and shares a special message with readers. The issue also features a special photo story and interview with comedian Soshina and a fashion portrait of actress Minami Sara.
BLACKPINK's Jisoo stars in Netflix's "Monthly Boyfriend," a romantic comedy about a webcomic producer who experiences virtual dating. The series, premiering on March 6, features unique settings and characters, promising excitement and romance as she navigates her daily life and virtual experiences.
i-dle celebrates Lunar New Year by releasing a vertical performance video for 'Mono (Feat. skaiwater)', showcasing a relay performance with dramatic lighting and monochrome styling. The group has achieved significant success on music charts and is set to kick off their world tour in Seoul with a diverse setlist.
No Hong-chul faces criticism for photos taken with a lion during his Africa trip. He clarifies his position on ethical wildlife encounters, stating that the animals are cared for by the Tanzanian government and that he supports their rehabilitation. He also addresses misinformation regarding the use of tranquilizers on the lions.
A social media post claims that a fan spotted Minji from NewJeans in London, describing her outfit and resemblance. The fan noted a name 'Kim' was mentioned nearby, possibly linking to Minji's full name. However, the accompanying photo was too blurry to confirm her identity. Meanwhile, NewJeans' agency ADOR won a legal case regarding their contracts, with some members expressing intentions to return, while Minji continues negotiations with ADOR.
Min Hee-jin, former head of ADOR, wins a lawsuit against HYBE, awarded approximately 25 billion yen. She celebrates on social media with a video featuring a dinosaur character, reminiscent of her past press conference attire. The ruling favors her in two disputes, while HYBE expresses disappointment and plans to appeal. NewJeans faces challenges in group activities due to contract disputes with ADOR.
