Hundreds of female K-Pop idols targeted in explicit deepfake videos linked to ‘New Nth Room’ scandal

Hundreds of female K-Pop idols are victims of explicit deepfake videos circulating in the ‘New Nth Room’ scandal.

The K-Pop industry, known for its global influence and meticulously crafted performances, is currently facing a significant challenge. 

Recent developments have linked K-Pop idols to the South Korean porn industry through the disturbing use of deepfake technology. This technology, which utilizes artificial intelligence to create highly realistic yet entirely fabricated images, has been increasingly used to superimpose the faces of K-Pop idols onto explicit content.

These deepfake images are being distributed across various online platforms, including illicit Telegram-based chatrooms referred to as "The New Nth Room." This name is a reference to the infamous "Nth Room" case, where similar crimes involving the creation and distribution of sexual deepfakes were committed.

According to a Security Hero report highlighted by the Wall Street Journal, South Korea is identified as the most vulnerable nation to deepfake sexual crimes. The report analyzed nearly 96,000 videos from ten deepfake porn sites and 85 channels on video-sharing platforms over two months, finding that 53% of those featured in the deepfake content were Korean singers and actors. 

Awareness about these deepfake sites targeting female K-Pop idols has been growing, with one particular site listing over 100 female idols from various generations, including members of fifth-generation groups.

The situation has sparked widespread outrage among fans and the public, who are urging for swift legal action to protect the victims and hold those responsible accountable. This incident highlights the vulnerabilities that public figures face in an increasingly digital world.

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