As of the morning of August 19 (KST), the social media account belonging to user A, who is believed to have initially uploaded the controversial video, had been suspended. As a result, the video and the user’s previous posts are no longer accessible.
A is reportedly believed to have uploaded the video around August 15, making it appear as though part of Jennie’s body had been exposed. The video reportedly surpassed 12.5 million views within just half a day of being posted, allowing it to spread rapidly online.
A debate subsequently erupted over whether the footage was genuine or had been manipulated using artificial intelligence (AI). Reports that other posts on A’s account also appeared to involve suspected AI manipulation further fueled claims that the video was fabricated.
While the debate continued, the video was repeatedly shared across social media platforms and online communities. Sexually harassing and insulting comments targeting Jennie also spread, raising concerns about further harm to the singer.
Jennie’s agency, OA Entertainment, eventually released an official statement on August 18, announcing that it would take strong legal action.
The agency said, “We have continuously confirmed acts involving baseless defamation and the spread of false information about Jennie, as well as the malicious editing, manipulation, posting and distribution of photos and videos in ways that infringe upon her privacy and personal rights.”
The agency added, “We are monitoring relevant posts and accounts and collecting evidence with professional legal representatives. We are currently taking civil and criminal legal action against serious violations of her rights.”
It particularly emphasized that legal measures would also be taken against “maliciously editing or manipulating Jennie’s physical features, repeatedly posting or reposting parts of photos or videos, and spreading them together with insulting expressions or false information.” The agency firmly stated, “There will be no settlement or leniency in this process.”
If the controversial footage is confirmed to be a fabricated video created using AI or other technology without the subject’s consent and designed to cause sexual humiliation, those who create or distribute it could face legal consequences. South Korea’s current Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes provides penalties for editing, synthesizing, manipulating and distributing fabricated videos involving a person’s face, body or voice.
Online users have also warned that searching for or redistributing the video itself could contribute to further secondary harm. Calls for the distributor to face punishment have continued to grow.
Jennie’s agency said it would “continue checking relevant materials based on reports from fans,” adding that through ongoing monitoring and systematic responses, it would do its best to protect not only the artist but also the fans who support her.
Sources: Naver