Deepfakes are a growing issue in the entertainment industry, especially with the rise of use in generative artificial intelligence (AI). Thankfully, more companies are taking stern action against perpetrators.
On 18th June 2026 (Thursday), SM Entertainment announced the court sentence for the perpetrator who created and sold deepfake videos of aespa (에스파) members Karina (카리나) and Winter (윈터) for profit. According to the statement, the perpetrator, identified as A, was sentenced to two years and six months in prison for the crime.
On top of jail time, SM Entertainment notes that the Criminal Division 1 of the Daegu High Court also ordered A to complete 80 hours of a sexual violence treatment program. The court also imposed a seven-year employment restriction on A at institutions related to children and adolescents.
The company said it’ll continue to monitor reports from fans and social media platforms to tackle deepfake-related cases, noting the severity of the issue. It adds that it’ll continue to collect evidence against individuals who spread malicious rumours, false information, and manipulated and sexually harassing content involving aespa and pursue legal action.
SM Entertainment also notes that it has secured significant evidence and is working to identify anonymous users, which hints that more perpetrators will receive sentences soon. Many fans have reacted positively to the news, hoping the company will continue to take action against malicious individuals and protect their artists.
It’s worth noting that SM Entertainment isn’t the only company bringing perpetrators of deepfake content to court. Last year, BELIFT LAB announced that a group of individuals received jail sentences for creating deepfake content involving ILLIT members. The perpetrators were also sexually harassing the girl group members.
Many fans have expressed support for companies taking action against individuals who sexually harass and create illegal content of K-Pop stars, particularly girl group members. While some had hoped for a more severe punishment for the perpetrators, many argued that it’s better than letting them go without any penalty.
Let’s hope entertainment companies will continue to seek justice and protect their artists from sexual harassment and maliciously created content.
