AI deepfake videos of South Korean President used in investment scam
AI-generated deepfake videos impersonating South Korean President Lee Jae-myung were used to promote EquiloomPRO, an investment scam platform on social media. The fake videos contained the President's deepfaked face and voice claiming guaranteed investment returns. South Korean police initiated a preliminary investigation in October 2025.
What happened
AI-generated deepfake videos featuring South Korean President Lee Jae-myung endorsing an online investment platform called EquiloomPRO were spread via social media to promote an investment scam.
The fake videos showed Lee claiming monthly investments of 300,000 won could generate returns of 24 to 30 million won, and included deepfake appearances by South Korean news anchors presenting the platform as government-approved.
The scam directed victims to visit a website, enter personal information including name, email and phone number, then transfer a minimum of 350,000 won.
Reported impact
Police identified at least two instances of video and interview content featuring the President's deepfaked face and voice used for the scam.
Index analysis
The deepfake videos contained grammar errors and unclear pronunciation suggesting they were created by non-Korean speakers using AI technology.
Governance controls
Gyeonggi South Police Cyber Investigation Division initiated a preliminary inquiry on October 13, 2025, into EquiloomPRO after independently learning of the incident.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.