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STU48 Idol Riko Kudo Expresses Disappointment After Manga Artist Abuses Grok AI

STU48 issues a legal warning after an AI-edited photo incident involving a manga artist, urging removal of unauthorised content.
STU48 Takes Legal Stance After AI Manipulation of Member Photos Sparks Outrage
STU48 Draws Firm Line on AI Abuse Following Manga Artist Controversy (Photo: STU48)

Jpop group STU48 has released a firm and unmistakable warning over the unauthorised use of its members’ images, following growing concerns around AI-generated content circulating on social media. The notice was officially announced by STU Inc. on 5 January 2026, making it clear that the group will no longer tolerate misuse involving photos, videos, or AI-altered visuals of its members.

According to the statement, management has seen a sharp rise in content being uploaded without permission, including images taken privately and AI-generated visuals that imitate the faces or appearances of STU48 members. 

These actions were described as a serious violation of both portrait rights and publicity rights, affecting not only members under STU Inc., but also those affiliated with other agencies.

STU48 Responds to AI Image Abuse as Industry Faces Growing Concerns

The warning comes after popular manga artist Tanabe Yoichiro posted AI-edited images of member Riko Kudo on social media, generated using an AI image tool. 

While the original post was later deleted following requests from members, the incident quickly drew criticism online and reignited discussions about ethical boundaries in the use of Grok-generative AI involving public figures.

STU48’s Mai Nakamura directly replied to Tanabe, asking him to delete the post, and only then was it finally taken down.

STU48 Warns of Legal Action Over AI-Edited Member Content

Riko Kudo herself later spoke during a livestream, opening up about the emotional distress she felt over the incident.

STU48 stressed that such behaviour crosses a clear boundary, adding that it undermines members’ personal dignity as well as their commercial rights. From this point forward, the group says it will respond decisively to every confirmed case, including working alongside other agencies to ensure full protection for all affected members.

The warning follows a widely discussed online incident involving the AI manipulation of a member’s photo, which sparked strong reactions from fellow members and fans alike. 

While the content in question was eventually removed, the situation highlighted how quickly AI tools can be misused and how damaging the impact can be for idols placed at the centre of such posts.

In response, STU48 has formally requested that internet users immediately delete any unauthorised photos, videos, or AI-generated images involving its members. 

The management also stated that if deletion cannot be confirmed, or if harmful manipulation is identified, they may pursue legal steps. This could include formal requests for platform cooperation and disclosure of uploader identities.

The group emphasised that the purpose of this action is not to create fear, but to ensure a safe and respectful environment where members can focus on their work without unnecessary distress. 

Fans were also encouraged to support the group in a responsible way, helping to maintain a healthy relationship between idols and the public.

Notably, STU48 is not alone in this stance. Several other 48 Group teams have also issued similar warnings in recent weeks, particularly addressing the misuse of AI image tools such as Grok.

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