Star Magic has initiated legal actions against individuals responsible for creating and distributing fake photos and videos of members of the P-pop girl group BINI.
The move comes in response to a growing outcry from fans, fondly known as “Blooms,” who have called for stronger protection of the group from online exploitation, leading to the hashtag “#SMProtectBINI” to trend on X (formerly Twitter).
Under the hashtag which has over 100,000 thousand posts as of writing, Blooms urged Star Magic to take action against those subjecting the members to online sexual harassment, including the creation of deepfake photos and videos.
In an official statement posted on BINI’s social media accounts, Star Magic addressed the alarming rise of maliciously edited “deepfake” content circulating on social media platforms.
“It has come to our attention that there are malicious, edited deepfake photos and videos of BINI members circulating on social media,” the statement read, “We strongly condemn these harmful acts. Our team has already taken action to remove some of these accounts.”
The management agency emphasized that they are working closely with relevant government agencies and authorities to identify and hold accountable those responsible for these digital crimes.
The statement continued, “We are working with the proper government agencies and authorities to identify the individuals behind these acts and pursue legal action. We will continue to monitor and take all necessary measures against any form of exploitation or harassment.”
This isn’t the first time Star Magic has warned against online harassment targeting BINI.
Previously, the agency’s legal counsel, Atty. Joji Alonso, indicated that they had already begun collaborating with government agencies and private service providers to collect evidence against those engaging in such online bullying.
