AI Humans Revolutionize South Korea’s Entertainment and Industry
In a groundbreaking development, AI humans have gained immense popularity in South Korea, transforming the entertainment and corporate sectors. These digital beings, created by Pulse9, an artificial intelligence company, are taking the nation by storm and are projected to become a significant market worth US$527 billion by 2030.
Zaein, one of the most prominent virtual humans in South Korea, stands at the forefront of this AI revolution. Pulse9 has harnessed the potential of AI technology to bring Zaein to life, enabling her to sing, read the news, and even endorse luxury products on television. With a multitude of capabilities, virtual humans like Zaein are becoming an integral part of various industries, with major corporations, including Shinsegae, utilizing their services.
The demand for AI humans initially surged in the K-pop industry, as virtual idols offered an ideal solution for music agencies seeking performers without the risk of scandals and the ability to work around the clock. However, Pulse9 aims to expand the application of virtual humans beyond the realm of entertainment. According to Park Ji-eun, CEO of Pulse9, the company is actively working on broadening the use of AI humans, emphasizing their potential to coexist and collaborate with humans as colleagues and friends.
Zaein’s appearance draws inspiration from an in-depth analysis of K-pop stars’ faces spanning the past two decades, facilitated by deep learning technology. Combining this deepfake technology with the skills of human actors, Zaein embodies a level of realism and versatility that makes her truly unique. More than ten actors, each specializing in different talents such as singing, dancing, and acting, contribute to bringing Zaein to life.
While virtual humans are steadily gaining prominence, Park acknowledges that the technology still relies on human input until the development of stronger AI capable of autonomous processing. Despite the concerns surrounding AI technology, Park remains optimistic about its potential benefits. Pulse9 continues to work on creating virtual idols, influencers, and sales agents to support South Korean conglomerates struggling with recruitment in a low-birthrate country.
However, the rise of deepfake technology has also raised concerns. Kim Myuhng-joo, a professor of information security at Seoul Women’s University, highlights the potential dangers of deepfakes, emphasizing the challenges in distinguishing between what is real and what is fake. Striking the right balance between technology’s advancements and ethical considerations is crucial.
As the AI human phenomenon continues to capture public attention, there is a growing need for comprehensive regulations that delineate the boundaries of AI capabilities. Park emphasizes the importance of clear regulations to ensure that AI technology enriches society rather than causes harm. With the right guidelines in place, AI technology has the potential to enhance our lives significantly.
The incredible fusion of AI and human skills showcased by virtual humans like Zaein represents a paradigm shift in South Korea’s entertainment and corporate landscape. As this trend evolves, so too will society’s perception of AI technology, leading to a new era where virtual and real humans coexist.
