In response to a disturbing surge in malicious deepfakes targeting K-pop artists, including members of BLACKPINK and BABYMONSTER, YG Entertainment has taken a firm stand. The agency announced strict legal actions against those responsible for creating and distributing these AI-generated videos, which are being used to produce pornographic content involving their artists.

Deepfakes of BLACKPINK, BABYMONSTER, and Other Artists Surface

On September 2, 2024, YG Entertainment released an official statement addressing the deeply troubling situation. The agency confirmed that they are aware of the inappropriate deepfake videos being circulated, featuring their popular artists like BLACKPINK and BABYMONSTER. These videos, created using artificial intelligence, have been widely distributed online, causing significant harm to the reputation of the artists involved.

“We are continuing to monitor the widespread and malicious nature of this illegal activity, are working to delete/block illegal videos, and are taking all possible legal action, including criminal proceedings,” YG Entertainment stated, emphasizing their commitment to protecting their artists.

YG Entertainment’s Legal Actions and Commitment to Protecting Artists

The agency further assured fans and the public that they are taking every possible step to combat this issue. They are actively working to remove the illegal content from the internet and are pursuing legal actions, including criminal proceedings, against those responsible. YG Entertainment also reiterated their dedication to responding sternly to such illegal acts, which pose a severe threat to the reputation and well-being of their artists.

The Alarming Scale of the Deepfake Issue

The issue of deepfakes in the K-pop industry has reached alarming levels. According to reports, more than 200 female K-pop stars have become victims of these disturbing videos. Recently, it was discovered that numerous chatrooms on platforms like Telegram are being used to distribute these malicious deepfakes, further damaging the reputations of the targeted artists.

One particularly troubling report highlighted a group with over 2,161 men involved in the production and distribution of deepfake videos featuring members of the popular girl group IVE. Other victims include BLACKPINK’s Jennie, Lisa, NewJeans’ Minji, TWICE’s Sana, ITZY’s Yuna, Red Velvet’s Irene, aespa’s Karina, and IU.

Resurfacing of ‘Nth Room’ Horrors

This situation has drawn comparisons to the infamous Nth Room case, which exposed widespread sexual exploitation and illegal activities, including blackmail and cyber sex trafficking, conducted through Telegram chatrooms. Although the main culprits behind the Nth Room case were eventually caught and sentenced, the resurgence of similar activities involving celebrity deepfake content has sent shockwaves through the K-pop community. Fans continue to urge law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against these illegal activities.

Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is suffering any form of sexual assault or exploitation, please seek immediate help from the nearest NGO or security. There are several helplines available for the same.

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