(A)I can’t decide: How much AI is too much AI?

AI is being used in almost every part of productivity these days. The general populace is still divided over the use of AI for jobs that have provided livelihood for many and the debate gets stronger when it comes to the use of AI in the creative arts like painting, sculpture, music, and audio-visual media. 

 

AI is being used to make music and visual content that transcends the limits of traditional audio-visual media. There have been new songs and different “versions” of existing songs created with the help of AI-backed voice generation tools. There have been several competitions that rank AI-generated content as well. The use of AI is no longer limited to something experimental but it has also found its way in the mainstream media. 

 

We have seen the use of AI in K-pop as well. Groups like aespa and PLAVE have shown us that AI can be used to create online avatars and music. Recently, another rookie group has come under fire from netizens for allegedly using AI. The group is none other than KISS OF LIFE. The group is going to make its comeback with its third mini-album Lose Yourself. 

In one particular set of concept photos, we see the members stand against a fantastical backdrop in the shades of pink, brown, orange and white. There are huge blown-up balloon figures, dilapidated buildings and sign boards that have gibberish on them. Fans were quick to spot these errors in the photos and point out the suspected use of AI to generate the images. The group faced immense backlash upon the release of these photos. Fans were unhappy with the creative team of KISS OF LIFE and kept no filter to express their disappointment. 

 

One thing to note is that well-constructed photos made with photo editing app features is generally still considered the standard because it gives a pathway for a graphic designer to show their creativity and supports human talent. There have been stellar concepts several times over where creative thinkers have used their talents to create audio-visual media that stuns the audience. 

 

While KISS OF LIFE has stunned fans with its captivating music since it first debuted, the suspected use of AI for its concept photos with this comeback has left a bad taste indeed. What do you think of the use of AI in the creative arts? How much AI is too much AI?