Thai tourism officials say ‘no AI’ for viral Lisa image amid online backlash

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by SCMP’s Asia deskJanuary 23, 2026 at 09:27 AM
Thai tourism officials say ‘no AI’ for viral Lisa image amid online backlash

AI Summary

short article 2 min

Thailand's Tourism Authority (TAT) denied using AI to create a viral campaign image featuring Blackpink's Lisa Manobal after online users speculated about its authenticity. The image, part of the "Amazing Thailand" campaign and showcasing Lisa at the Red Lotus Sea, drew criticism for appearing overly perfect. The TAT clarified that the image was a real photograph, enhanced through standard design techniques by a creative team, and approved by Lisa's management. The agency addressed the claims after mounting speculation, emphasizing that no AI image generation was used. The controversy reflects broader concerns among younger Thai online users regarding the increasing use of AI-generated content and its potential to blur the lines between human and machine-made visuals.

Keywords

artificial intelligence 90% ai-generated content 80% image 70% tourism 70% creative work 60% online backlash 60% thailand 50% digital art 40%

Sentiment Analysis

Neutral
Score: -0.10

Source Transparency

Source
South China Morning Post
Political Lean
Center-Right (0.50)
Far LeftCenterFar Right
Classification Confidence
90%
Geographic Perspective
Thailand

This article was automatically classified using rule-based analysis. The political bias score ranges from -1 (far left) to +1 (far right).

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