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With less than 50 days remaining until South Korea’s parliamentary elections in April, concerns over the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated deepfake videos and images are mounting, prompting heightened vigilance from election authorities. The National Election Commission (NEC) has reported the detection of 129 pieces of AI-generated media content from January 29 to the end of last week, constituting a violation of the newly revised election law.
The Impact of Deepfake Manipulations:
Deepfake manipulations have already been used in past elections, both domestically and internationally, raising concerns about their impact on democracy. These AI-created videos and images pose one of the biggest threats to democracy, especially in the form of fake news and misleading public opinion. For instance, during the provincial elections in 2022, an AI-generated video circulated on social media depicting President Yoon Suk Yeol endorsing a local candidate from the ruling party. Similarly, in January, New Hampshire voters received an AI-generated robocall impersonating U.S. President Joe Biden, advising them not to vote in the state’s presidential primary election.
Challenges Faced by Election Authorities:
As AI technology continues to evolve and proliferate, experts warn of the sophistication and speed of deepfake production, outpacing traditional verification processes employed by election authorities. The unmatched speed of deepfake creation compared to verification efforts makes it challenging for authorities to combat their proliferation. Professor Kim Myuhng-joo from Seoul Women’s University noted, “The speed of production of believable fakes through deepfake technologies is much faster than that of the NEC’s verification process. It’s unmatchable.”
The Need for a Multifaceted Approach:
The continuous evolution of deepfake technology poses additional hurdles for detection and mitigation, calling for a multifaceted approach that prioritizes rigorous verification protocols. Election authorities must leverage advanced AI detection tools and collaborate with tech experts to stay ahead of deepfake creators. Additionally, public awareness campaigns can help educate voters about the existence of deepfakes and the importance of verifying information before sharing it.
As South Korea’s parliamentary elections approach, the threat of deepfake manipulations looms large. Election authorities must remain vigilant and proactive in combating the spread of AI-generated fake content to ensure the integrity of the electoral process. By employing advanced detection technologies and fostering public awareness, South Korea can mitigate the impact of deepfake manipulations and uphold the principles of democracy.