Controversy Over Regional Disparagement Image in National Election Commission’s Promotional Video Amid AI Outsourcing Review Issues

KBS Collaboration, AI-Produced Video Made Private
Election Commission Apologizes for Failing to Filter Content

The National Election Commission has issued an apology for including an image in its official promotional video that was reminiscent of derogatory portrayals of a specific region. Amid growing controversy over its responsibility for the ballot paper shortage during the June 3 local elections, concerns have now emerged over the commission's inadequate review of its election promotional content.

An image suggestive of derogatory remarks about a specific region appeared in the official promotional video of the National Election Commission. Photo by KBS

On June 5, the commission stated, "We deeply apologize to the public for the inclusion of an image in a video co-produced with KBS for promotional purposes, which could be perceived as derogatory toward a particular region."

The controversial video was created to help voters understand the ballot counting process ahead of the local elections. Produced by KBS, it was posted on the official YouTube channel of the National Election Commission and also aired during KBS’s local election coverage. According to the commission, the video was made using AI technology by an outsourced production company affiliated with KBS’s subsidiary, KBSN.

The scene that drew criticism appears midway through the video, where a character sighs, and a graphic reminiscent of a skate fish appears around the nose and mouth. "Skate fish" is a term that has been used disparagingly toward the Honam region in certain online communities.

Upon recognizing the issue, the commission made the video private on its official YouTube channel. The commission expressed regret, stating, "We regret that we failed to filter out this image during the final review of the video," and added, "We will thoroughly inspect all aspects of future video production and review processes to prevent such incidents from recurring."

KBS also stated, after reviewing the production process, that there was no intention to disparage any particular region or group, and issued an official apology through its 9 o’clock news broadcast.

Political circles and local communities have also voiced criticism. The Democratic Party of Korea urged both the commission and KBS to take responsibility and clarify the circumstances. The Gwangju branch of the Democratic Party also demanded an apology and accountability, stating, "A symbol that could provoke regional disparagement has been included in the official promotional video of a constitutional institution and public broadcaster, both of which should safeguard the fairness of elections."

This controversy erupted while the commission was already under heavy criticism for the ballot paper shortage. On this day, Noh Taeak, Chairperson of the National Election Commission, acknowledged responsibility for the ballot paper shortage and expressed his intention to resign. As trust in election management wavers and scrutiny over the review system for promotional materials intensifies, the commission faces even greater controversy over its management responsibilities.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.