TXT Faces Backlash for AI Interaction During Anniversary Celebration

On March 4, 2026, the popular K-Pop group TXT marked their 7th debut anniversary with a special video on their official YouTube channel. During the celebration, the members engaged in a conversation that they believed was with other junior idols in the industry. However, the interaction took a surprising turn when it was revealed that the participants were actually conversational AI models.

The moment of revelation shocked both the members and their fans. Taehyun, one of the group’s members, expressed skepticism early in the conversation, asking, “Don’t tell me this is some ChatGPT or Gemini?” His doubts were confirmed when the group learned that they had been chatting with AI that utilized data gathered up to one year after their debut.

While the concept of AI technology is intriguing, many fans reacted negatively, arguing that using artificial intelligence for such a personal celebration was unnecessary. Online comments reflected a sense of disappointment, with one fan stating, “There was absolutely no reason to use AI to portray a narrative for their 7th year.” Another fan lamented the emotional investment in the conversation, remarking that it was disheartening to realize that the heartfelt exchanges were not with real people but rather programmed bots.

The backlash intensified as fans highlighted the nature of the discussions, which included sharing backstories, memories, and even personal advice. Critics voiced their concerns about the implications of such interactions, suggesting that the use of AI stripped away the authenticity of the celebration. One user expressed their frustration by stating, “They couldn’t even give a proper HUMAN to experience this interaction, let alone on their 7th anniversary.”

The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the role of AI in the entertainment industry, particularly in how it impacts genuine human connections. Fans are questioning the decision-making process behind using technology in emotional contexts, especially during significant milestones.

Despite the criticism, TXT remains a beloved group in the K-Pop scene. Their innovative approach and willingness to experiment with technology have garnered them a dedicated fanbase. As the conversation around AI continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the group navigates the balance between technological advancements and authentic fan interactions in the future.

As fans continue to express their sentiments online, the full video of the anniversary celebration remains available on YouTube, allowing viewers to witness the interaction that has stirred such passionate responses.