South Korea Scrambles To Close Huge Loophole In Regulation Amid Nationwide Deepfake Chatroom Scandal
Following the shocking discoveries of Telegram-based “humiliation rooms” and deepfake porn, South Korean politicians are rushing to battle the repeating “Nth Room-like” digital sex crimes.
All We Know About The “New Nth-Room” Telegram-Based Sexual Crimes Taking South Korea By Storm
On August 27, 2024 (KST), representative Han Jeong Ae of the Democratic Party of Korea introduced a bill to amend the “Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes,” aimed to penalize individuals who purchase, store, possess, or view sexually exploitative and/or compromising content created using deepfake technology.
The current South Korean regulations penalize those who produce, edit, and/or distribute sexually exploitative content against the will of the person(s) being photographed/videographed. However, there are no specific regulations for those who download, possess, or view the fabricated deepfake content from platforms like Telegram.
Elementary Schools Show Up On Disturbing Map Of Schools Involved In Deepfake Chatrooms
Representative Han’s proposed amendment will close the current loophole, making individuals who possess, purchase, store, or view deepfake content face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to ₩20.0 million KRW (about $15,100 USD).
The current regulations against sexual violence crimes lack specific clauses for penalizing those who consume deepfake content fabricated for sexual exploitation. While deepfake technology becomes more common, the regulations have failed to keep pace with the development. This bill addresses that legislative gap.
— Han Jeong Ae
Meanwhile, South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol addressed the issue and called for “thorough” investigations during a televised cabinet meeting—though his response has drawn a massive backlash from Koreans.
Read more:
President Yoon Suk Yeol’s Response To “New Nth Room” Draws Massive Backlash
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