Actor Lee Yi-kyung declared he would take a tough stance against private life rumors fabricated by "AI synthesis." Even though the person who made the false allegation apologized saying it was "a joke," Lee Yi-kyung's side insisted there is "no settlement" and said it will pursue legal procedures to the end. Nevertheless, he continues his broadcasting activities without wavering.
#. "AI manipulation is not a joke but a clear crime"
The incident began on the 19th of last month when an overseas internet user A posted an exposé on a blog titled "reveal the actor's alleged true colors of Lee Yi-kyung." A published screenshots of sexual conversations and direct message images that A claimed were sent by Lee Yi-kyung, and they included language suggesting sex crimes, which shocked people.
But then the images were revealed to be manipulated works created by AI, and the situation suddenly reversed. A posted an apology on social media saying, "Because I used AI photos, they felt real. At first it was a joke." "What started from fan sentiment turned into emotional projection. I didn't know a post written for fun would grow like this," and bowed his head saying, "I feel guilty." Netizens, however, expressed anger saying, "You ruined someone's life as a joke," and "AI manipulation is a clear crime."
#. "There is no settlement"…agency completes legal action
On the 3rd, Lee Yi-kyung's agency Sangyeong ENT said in an official statement that it filed a complaint with the Seoul Gangnam Police Station on charges of false information and defamation, and added, "There have been no attempts at settlement or discussions of compensation regarding this matter, and there are no plans to do so in the future." It also said, "We will respond without leniency to acts that damage the personality and honor of our contracted actor," and "We will prevent harm caused by fabricated information and distorted facts and protect the actor's rights and interests."
Fans responded with support and encouragement, saying, "You must go all the way," "There will be no leniency for these malicious rumors," and "In an era where AI can ruin lives, you should set an example."
#. I'm SOLO recording proceeds as scheduled…no disruption to activities
Even after the controversy, Lee Yi-kyung's broadcast schedule has continued unchanged. On the 1st, the production team of ENA·SBS Plus variety show I'm SOLO said, "Lee Yi-kyung attended as scheduled as an MC and the recording proceeded." This was his first public engagement since the private life rumors, showing his steady, professional demeanor.
Some speculated that MBC's Hangout With Yoo was preempted because of the Lee Yi-kyung controversy, but the production team drew a line saying, "It was only a schedule change due to special coverage of the APEC leaders' summit and is unrelated to any cast controversy."
Having ended a three-day "nightmare" caused by the false exposé, Lee Yi-kyung is returning to everyday life. As the AI manipulation exposé was shown to be baseless, Lee Yi-kyung is restoring his reputation. Netizens have sent warm messages such as, "Punish them through the law to the end," "Lee Yi-kyung is not at fault. I support him," and "I hope to see him on variety shows with a smiling face now."
Having suffered for a while from the false exposé, Lee Yi-kyung once again stood before the cameras. With a firm stance of "no leniency," he is proving himself through unwavering actions. This incident remains a representative example of how AI manipulation and false rumors can leave deep scars on an individual's life. Public attention is focusing on what legal results Lee Yi-kyung's tough response will bring.
Meanwhile, I'm SOLO airs every Wednesday at 10:30 p.m. on ENA·SBS Plus.<
[photo] 'OSEN DB'
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