RIIZE AI Photo Controversy: Fans Slam RNX News Over AI-Generated Images

Can a news outlet legally deface an idol's face just to boost views? A recent incident involving the K-Pop group RIIZE has ignited a fierce debate over the ethical boundaries of AI in media.

On January 6, 2026, the media outlet RNX News posted a social media thumbnail featuring RIIZE that appeared to be heavily edited or entirely generated by AI. Fans quickly noticed the distorted facial features, which looked uncanny and unlike the actual members, sparking immediate backlash across global fan communities.

The RIIZE AI Photo Controversy and Media Ethics

BRIIZE, the group's fandom, took to X (formerly Twitter) to demand the removal of the images. Many argued that using AI to alter a person's physical appearance without consent constitutes a violation of portrait rights and defamation. One viral post highlighted the original photo, questioning why the media outlet chose to 'damage' the artist's visual integrity for engagement.

In response, fans have reportedly submitted evidence to KWANGYA 119, SM Entertainment's dedicated platform for protecting artist rights. The move signals a growing intolerance within fandoms toward 'AI slop'—low-quality, AI-generated content used by media outlets to churn out rapid updates.

South Korea's Struggle with AI Slop Channels

The rise of AI in K-Pop media isn't an isolated event. South Korea has recently seen a surge in 'AI slop' channels, ranking high in global trends for automated content. While AI offers efficiency, its application in journalism and idol photography remains a gray area, often crossing the line into misinformation and character deformation.