ByteDance short drama platform responds to AI “face theft” claims, removes series over unauthorized face use

ByteDance’s Hongguo short drama platform removed the AI-generated series “Peach Blossom Hairpin” after a complaint over unauthorized face use.

A 72-hour review found the producer could not prove compliant authorization for the materials used.

Hongguo suspended the producer from uploading content for 15 days.

The case shows growing scrutiny of AI content that uses real people’s likenesses without permission.