Man Sentenced to Fine for Distributing AI-Generated Exploitative Content Using NewJeans Members' Faces

A man in his 20s has been fined 15 million KRW for creating and distributing non-consensual sexual content by digitally altering the faces of members of the popular K-pop group NewJeans.

The Pohang branch of the Daegu District Court handed down the sentence on the 20th, ordering the defendant, identified as 'A', to pay a 15 million KRW fine and complete 40 hours of a sexual violence treatment program. He was charged with violations of the Act on the Protection of Children and Youth against Sex Offenses, among other charges.

'A' is accused of digitally synthesizing the faces of NewJeans members Haerin, Hanni, and Minji at his residence in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do, in January of this year. He then allegedly edited and distributed these fabricated images and videos through a Telegram channel.

The court cited the high transmissibility of the content distributed on a Telegram channel accessed by over 200 users, as well as the lack of forgiveness from the victims, as factors influencing the sentencing.

Previously, NewJeans' agency, ADOR, stated its commitment to continuously monitoring online communities, music sites, and social media channels for any infringement of artists' rights. ADOR emphasized its swift removal requests and strict legal actions, even against overseas-based sites, and particularly highlighted its firm stance against deepfake crimes, rejecting settlement offers from perpetrators and cooperating with investigative agencies.

In related news, ADOR recently announced that members Haerin and Hyein have agreed to continue their activities with the agency under their exclusive contracts, following careful consideration with their families and respect for the court's decision. Shortly after, Minji, Hanni, and Danielle also expressed their intention to return. However, this announcement was reportedly made without prior consultation with ADOR, leading to further discussions. ADOR stated they are coordinating individual meetings with the members to facilitate smooth discussions.

Netizens have expressed strong reactions, with comments like 'The perpetrator deserves severe punishment,' 'I feel so sorry for the NewJeans members. I hope they don't get hurt by this,' and 'I fully support the agency's strong legal action.' The general sentiment is one of concern for the victims and support for firm legal measures against such crimes.