“My Life Is Not Your Porn”: Deepfake Pornography, Sexual Violence, and Feminist Resistance in East Asia

“Deepfake” is a portmanteau of deep learning and faked imagery, referring to synthetic media where AI is used to create hyper-realistic digital manipulations of images, videos, or audio. Though initially explored for entertainment and creative purposes, this technology has also facilitated new forms of sexual exploitation. In 2024, South Korea faced a scandal involving deepfake to create unauthorized pornographic media of women, including minors. The incident spurred public outrage and feminist-led protests, calling for stricter regulations and online protections. This study seeks to explore why technology-facilitated sexual violence, such as deepfake-related crimes, is proliferating in East Asia, specifically targeting (minor) women. Additionally, the research investigates the broader impacts these crimes have on the victims, legal implications, and the role of feminist movements in combating this growing threat.

Grounded in cybermisogyny theory, this study aims to understand how patriarchal systems exploit technology to perpetuate gender-based violence. The study adopts a qualitative approach, reviewing secondary data alongside social media discourse surrounding the South Korean deepfake incidents.

Key findings highlight entrenched patriarchal values, a culture of cybermisogyny, governmental inaction, and inadequate sex education as contributing factors to the rise of technology-facilitated sexual violence against (minor) women in East Asia. The accessibility of deepfake technology allows even ordinary individuals to create and share deepfake content, while encrypted messaging platforms like Telegram enable rapid distribution of these materials. The advanced nature of this technology, along with inadequate legal regulation, leaves both victims and consumers struggling to discern the authenticity of these images. To effectively combat this escalating threat, coordinated progress in education, legal frameworks, and social awareness is crucial. Moreover, transnational feminist movements in East Asia have not only raised awareness but have also successfully pressured governments and institutions to implement preventive mechanisms and solutions.