In what many are calling a concerning new trend, a recent fan call with K-pop sensation ITZY's Yeji has come under fire for allegedly showcasing a deepfake video of the idol.

The Rise of Deepfakes: A Malicious Curse?

Deepfake technology, which manipulates videos to make it appear as though individuals are doing or saying things they never did, has been a growing concern for netizens, particularly within the realm of K-pop.

These manipulated videos have the potential to spread false information or, as in this case, create uncomfortable situations for idols.

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Allegations of Inappropriate Content

The controversy emerged when a photo from the fan call began circulating on social media platforms.

The image suggested that the fan had shared a deepfake video of Yeji participating in a dance challenge. Despite its striking resemblance to the idol, the video was, in fact, a manipulated creation.

Although the original tweet has since been deleted, the backlash against the fan's actions was swift and palpable. Many netizens expressed outrage at the inappropriate nature of presenting a deepfake to an idol, regardless of any positive reaction Yeji may have shown.

Crossing the Line: Concerns Over Fan Interactions

Fan calls, which offer a unique opportunity for fans worldwide to connect with their favorite idols, have now come under scrutiny. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the boundaries of fan interactions and the ethical use of technology in the realm of K-pop.

so fucking weird i hope whoever showed that deepfake video to yeji get banned and rot in hell freak pic.twitter.com/LLKtfj9QWb

— appy (@sooyashosie) March 10, 2024

 

can we just go back to asking whether they like mint chocolate or not like im so serious https://t.co/5LrKNe89qw

— gigi ecoerience 🍉 (@katarinabluu_) March 10, 2024

deepfakes are literally one of the most harmful uses of AI and the fact that you were okay with showing yeji this is fucking disgusting considering how else this technology is being used. you should be banned from ever being in a video call again fucking idiot dipshit

— annie loves lia 🫶🏼 (@killingryujeong) March 10, 2024

 

We are witnessing in real time how the development of AI and new tech will be used by freaks to hurt and control women. https://t.co/dl6Q0tBxDw

— kim (@blacckpop) March 10, 2024

showing a female idol her deepfakes on fan call is a new level of low… when are we banning fan calls once and for all pic.twitter.com/nnlTV2FHTN

— ali (@sooyapaved) March 10, 2024

 

That AI deepfake video that one fan did in a face call with yeji is f"cked up like yeji was prob so discused to see her self dance, like I used AI before on itzy photo but for good use and nothing weird. Like one time I was using AI on a Lia picture and it made Lia look half…

— ᯓ ★𝙎𝙖𝙢𝙢𝙮★🍓 (@sammyboy1313PSN) March 10, 2024

As netizens continue to express their concerns, it raises questions about the responsibility of fans and the industry as a whole to ensure the well-being and respect of idols in an increasingly digital age.

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Written by Cassidy Jones.