SM Entertainment Takes Legal Action Against AI Deepfakes
AI deepfake technology has recently been misused to create and circulate a manipulated image of Girls’ Generation member and actress Yoona, falsely depicting her as pregnant. In response, her agency, SM Entertainment, has officially initiated legal proceedings.
Zero Tolerance Policy for Illegal Content
In a statement released on the 28th, SM Entertainment confirmed that they have filed criminal charges against those responsible for producing and spreading the fabricated image. The agency emphasized that they will pursue the case with a zero-tolerance policy, ruling out any possibility of leniency or settlement.
Legal Consequences of Sharing Manipulated Images
The agency warned that the unauthorized creation and distribution of such content, as well as sharing or re-posting these images, constitutes a serious violation of the law. Potential legal repercussions include charges related to defamation under the Information and Communications Network Act, violation of portrait rights, and the illicit production and distribution of fabricated imagery under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment, etc. of Sexual Crimes. SM Entertainment has strongly urged the public to immediately cease the generation and circulation of these illegal materials.
