On September 10, a Reddit post entitled “K-Pop fans by doing this is really strange. I can’t believe that it is becoming a” bright debate on a new worrying phenomenon: fans who use artificial intelligence (AI) to generate intimate images with their favorite idols.
The post criticized fans for the creation of manipulated photos that describe idols in affectionate scenarios on stage, how to embrace or kiss. The author warned that the trend could intensify in much more inappropriate content, placing serious risks for artists.
Intensified concerns after fans of CortisA group of boys under Bighit (Hybe), discovered images generated by the air Ai KeonhoA member born in 2009 and still minor. Likewise, Ian of smenaterinment’s Hearts2hearts It became a target of these changes.
“Some zealous fans imitate him and transform it into a trend. This is exactly why the IA should not exist. Imagine bizarre things that people can create only to satisfy their fantasies”. Reddit’s user warned.
Fans and Netizen require responsibilities
Many Netizen agreed, underlining that the rapid progress of technology to the growing dangers. Comments included:
- “Photoshopped images can also deceive people. Artificial intelligence is much more sophisticated. This area needs more severe legal supervision.”
- “If I hadn’t been warned, I would have thought that these photos were real. It’s terrifying.”
- “Stop editing the photos of polaroid with ai. If you want photos with your idol, use only photoshop. Don’t abuse the AI.”
Previously, an account X called Cortis protects He urged fans to stop Objective idolsBy calling the disrespectful and harmful practice. Their statement recited:
“We remind all fans not to use the IA or to modify the images of members in sexually suggestive or inappropriate ways. Cortis members are human beings who deserve respect, not objects. We protect their image and keep a healthy environment Fandom.”
A global problem beyond k-pop
The concern extends beyond k-pop. At the beginning of 2024 social media platforms circulated Pornographic images of Deepfake by Taylor SwiftBy putting her in sexualized scenarios during an NFL game with her boyfriend, Travis Kelce. Swift fans denounced images as a form of sexual harassment and digital exploitation.
In August 2024, South Korea discovered a huge scandal in which Over 200 female k-pop idols They were victims of pornographic videos of depths distributed through Telegram notorious Nth Room net. Months earlier, the police had arrested more than 100 men for producing and sharing the contents of sexually explicit deepfakes involving idols, actresses, streamers and even ordinary women.
The K-Pop Fandom alarm reflects a wider social demand for stronger digital guarantees. As artificial intelligence tools become increasingly accessible, fans, experts and legislators claim that without regulation, sexualization and exploitation of public figures and even minors intensify only.
The debate highlights an urgent question: where the society should draw the border between technological creativity and the violation of human dignity?
Sources: K14
