RBW teams up with AI avatar chat app 'almigo', which allows users to exchange explicit chat messages + video calls with AI characters; netizens call on a mass boycott

RBW has teamed up with the AI avatar chat app 'almigo' by KLLEON, introducing users to the app's first K-Pop idol characters. 

RBW artists including KARA's Youngji, MAMAMOO's Solar, Oh My Girl's Hyojung, and YOUNG POSSE's Gianna have been added as characters in 'almigo', an app which allows users select characters and engage in one-on-one conversations with them. While the app's basic feature allows anyone to exchange chat messages with AI avatar characters for free, it also comes equipped with a paid feature, which gives users the option to exchange explicit conversations and even video calls with their selected AI avatar characters. 

Basic vs. Prime features on 'almigo':

News of 'almigo's partnership with RBW has quickly spurred a boycott among netizens both in Korea and around the world. Many netizens urged others to report the app as "offensive, illegal, and abusive content" that can potentially put these K-Pop idols at risk for "verbal and sexual abuse and exploitation." 

K-netizens reacted in anger and disgust, commenting,

"This is so messed up. Report this disgusting app right now!!"

"Just when I thought that RBW could not sink any lower, it surprises me yet again."

"This is so disgusting and ridiculous. Just reported everything. If this kind of exploitation is permitted now, other people will jump to make easy money like this."

"If you use images of real people to generate an AI character, that is called DEEPFAKE."

"I can't believe there is a company that is willingly selling their female artists' images like this.. I don't think it'll be enough to report the app. We need to report this company."

"They must be in some serious financial trouble if they're stooping this low."

"This is no different from a cyber sex crime."

"OMG someone please save Hyojung from this TT"

"Everyone at that company must have lost their minds."

"They say K-Pop companies will do anything for money but this is a NEW LOW."

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