SM Will Not Stand By!...YoonA x Winter, Illegal AI Photos + False Information: "Legal Action" [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

SM Entertainment (hereinafter SM) once again demonstrated its unwavering stance in protecting its affiliated artists.

On the 28th, SM announced through its official social media channels, "We solemnly warn that we will take strong legal action against malicious posts being continuously distributed targeting Winter."

The company further explained that illegal posts involving the spread of false information, defamation, insults, malicious slander and personal attacks, and sexual harassment are being continuously posted on various platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, Theqoo, Instiz, DC Inside, and Nate Board. It stated that it would proceed with legal procedures, such as filing complaints, in stages after review by a law firm.

The company added that it will respond without exception to posts from anonymous bulletin boards or overseas sources, securing materials to identify the authors and requesting investigation from law enforcement authorities. It also issued a warning that it will hold identified perpetrators strongly accountable under a zero-tolerance policy.

SM also showed strong resolve in protecting YoonA. The company announced, "We have additionally confirmed that illegal AI-generated images illegally synthesizing YoonA's likeness and false information based on them are being indiscriminately produced and distributed."

The images in question sparked controversy by depicting YoonA with a pregnant-looking belly, with a man whose face is obscured appearing to place his hand on the belly. The agency stated that it had collected evidence through fan reports and its own monitoring (Gwangya 119) and has already filed criminal complaints, emphasizing that it will respond firmly without leniency or settlement.

The company also warned that creating, posting, and redistributing AI-synthesized content without consent may constitute defamation under the Information and Communications Network Act, infringement of portrait rights, and editing and distribution of false video materials under the Sexual Violence Punishment Act.

Both Winter and YoonA are core artists of SM. The agency stated firmly, "Going forward, we will continue to monitor related activities and respond actively to protect the rights and reputation of our affiliated artists."

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*This content was translated by AI.