Teen sentenced for creating and distributing deepfake sexual images of teachers
A South Korean teenager was sentenced to 1.5 to 2 years imprisonment for creating and distributing deepfake sexual images of five teachers in August 2024 using AI technology. The images, which included victims' identifying information, were shared on social media and Telegram; affected teachers reported psychological trauma and difficulty trusting students.
What happened
A teenager in South Korea used artificial intelligence to create deepfake sexual images by compositing the faces of five teachers onto nude photographs in August 2024 while a middle school student. The images were distributed on social media and Telegram.
During trial proceedings, additional charges showed the teenager created 35 deepfake images total targeting 11 people, including the five teachers and six middle school girls. The composite images included the teachers' real names, ages, schools, subjects taught, some with phone numbers and Instagram accounts. The teenager participated in a Telegram chat group themed around 'acquaintance mockery' and created the images to join the group.
Reported impact
A victim teacher testified that she had loved her students but now finds it difficult to trust them, and experiences trauma from camera shutter sounds and mentions of deepfakes. The court noted that affected teachers are undergoing long-term psychological therapy and experiencing significant trauma.
The Incheon Teachers' Labor Union expressed strong regret over the verdict, stating that if lenient punishments for minors continue, it will not prevent future victims. A union leader said the judicial decision has not kept pace with voices from the field.
Index analysis
The court found the teenager created the images with distorted sexual impulses and curiosity while emotionally immature at ages 16-17. The court determined that all Telegram chat room participants knew the images were composites and shared them knowingly.
Governance controls
The teenager was discharged from school before an education authority protection committee meeting convened and did not face school disciplinary measures. The Incheon Metropolitan Office of Education superintendent stated plans to strengthen sex-related education for students and provide legal and psychological therapy support for affected teachers.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.