SM Entertainment has announced strong legal action against malicious online content targeting YoonA and aespa’s Winter, including unauthorized AI-generated images, false information, defamation, and harassment.
On September 28, SM issued a warning regarding posts about Winter that have continued to circulate across X, Instagram, YouTube, and several Korean online communities.
The agency stated, *“We strongly warn that we will take firm legal action against malicious posts that continue to be distributed targeting Winter.”*
According to SM, the company has found posts involving false information, defamatory claims, insults, personal attacks, and sexual harassment. After reviewing the material with its legal representatives, SM plans to proceed with complaints and other legal measures.
The agency added that anonymous accounts and posts originating overseas will not be excluded from its response. It said it plans to collect information that may help identify those responsible and request investigations when necessary.
SM also addressed unauthorized AI-generated content involving YoonA.
The company said, *“We have additionally confirmed that illegal AI-generated images created by using YoonA’s likeness without permission, as well as false information based on those images, are being indiscriminately created and distributed.”*
One manipulated image involving YoonA recently circulated online and appeared to falsely portray her in a fabricated situation. Rather than discussing the image in detail, SM emphasized that the content was created without her consent and was being used to spread misleading information.
SM said it collected evidence through fan reports and its own monitoring system, KWANGYA 119, and has already filed a criminal complaint regarding the case. The agency stressed that it intends to respond firmly without seeking settlements or leniency.
The company also warned that creating, posting, or redistributing AI-manipulated images without consent could potentially violate Korean laws related to defamation, portrait rights, and the creation or distribution of fabricated visual material.
SM concluded, *“We will continue to monitor related activities and actively respond in order to protect the rights and reputation of our artists.”*
The latest announcement reflects SM Entertainment’s continued efforts to address malicious posts, AI-generated content, and false information involving its artists through legal action.
