[Edaily Starin Gim Ga Yeong Reporter] Controversy has erupted following the circulation of photos featuring a face-swapped image of actress YoonA, a former member of Girls’ Generation, created using AI.

SM Entertainment stated on the 28th via its official social media channels “We have further confirmed that illegal AI-generated images—unauthorized composites using the likeness of our artist YoonA—and false claims based on these images are being indiscriminately produced and disseminated, primarily on social media and online communities,” the agency stated. “Through reports from fans and continuous monitoring, we are actively collecting and preserving evidence regarding these illegal posts. Based on this evidence, we have already filed a criminal complaint and plan to respond firmly without any leniency or settlement.”
The agency continued, “Not only does the act of creating and posting illegal合成 images using AI technology without the artist’s consent constitute defamation under the Information and Communications Network Act, but so does the act of sharing, reposting, or spreading such images and posts,” and emphasized, “Please immediately cease creating, posting, sharing, or reposting illegal合成 images or unverified false content.”
Additionally, the agency said, “We ask for your utmost caution to ensure you do not become involved in any unfortunate incidents due to such actions,” and added, “We will continue to monitor related activities and respond proactively to protect the rights, interests, and reputation of our artists.”
Previously, photos featuring YoonA’s face illegally photoshopped into another image had spread via social media and online communities. In the photos, YoonA was shown standing next to a man, and the image had been manipulated to make it appear as though she were pregnant.
As the post tagged YoonA’s official social media account, it gained traction among fans, sparking a wave of criticism and concern. SM Entertainment had previously addressed the issue, stating, “The production, distribution, and possession of illegal pornographic合成 images constitute serious criminal offenses that can lead to severe defamation and damage to one’s reputation,” and “While the vast majority of deepfake criminals share illegal pornographic合成 images through overseas social media platforms that offer a high degree of anonymity in an attempt to evade investigation, we are working closely with numerous law firms in the U.S., and through the investigative efforts of law enforcement agencies, these perpetrators are being apprehended without exception.”