🌟 In a bold move to protect its citizens, South Korea has approved a groundbreaking bill targeting the possession and viewing of deepfake sexual content. The legislation, passed by a parliamentary committee, is set to impose hefty prison sentences and fines on offenders.
📜 The revised law stipulates that individuals caught possessing, purchasing, storing, or viewing deepfake sexual materials could face up to three years in prison or fines reaching 30 million won (approximately $22,500). Recognizing the nuances of digital content consumption, lawmakers included a provision exempting those who unintentionally come across such materials.
🛡️ This initiative comes in response to growing public concern over digital sex crimes, especially after alarming reports emerged about AI-generated deepfake content circulating on messaging platforms featuring unwitting individuals. The move signifies South Korea's commitment to tackling the darker side of technology misuse.
👩⚖️ But that's not all! The committee didn't stop there. They also pushed forward revisions to laws protecting minors from sexual crimes. Under the new amendments, anyone using exploitative material to blackmail or coerce minors could face a minimum of three years in prison for blackmail and at least five years for coercion.
🤝 Additionally, changes to the sexual violence prevention act were proposed. These would enhance the government's role in removing illegally recorded content and provide better support for victims striving to rebuild their lives.
📱 Interestingly, these heightened efforts to combat digital exploitation coincide with international scrutiny of messaging platforms. Telegram founder Pavel Durov is currently under investigation in France over alleged organized crime activities linked to the app.
🌐 As technology continues to evolve, South Korea's proactive stance sends a clear message: digital safety and respect are paramount. This could pave the way for other nations to follow suit in regulating the virtual world to protect real people.
💡 What are your thoughts on this new legislation? Do you think it will make a significant impact? Share your opinions below! 👇
Reference(s):
South Korea approves bill targeting deepfake sexual exploitation
cgtn.com
