In brief
On 26 June, Hong Kong’s Correctional Services Department released an AI‑generated anti‑drug video that intended to shame drug users but led many viewers to accuse it of making drugs look appealing. The clip featured colourful, upbeat graphics that critics said promoted harmful substances rather than discouraging them. The backlash spread quickly online, with users calling on authorities to take the video down. BBC Chinese Service reporter Martin Yip outlines how the controversy unfolded and explains the limits of AI‑generated public education content.
On 26 June, Hong Kong’s Correctional Services Department released an AI‑generated anti‑drug video to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The clip, featuring colourful, upbeat graphics, was designed to shame drug users, but many viewers flagged it as turning harmful substances into a sort of “fashion statement.”
The unexpected backlash spread fast across social media, with users urging the department to remove the video and arguing that it sent the wrong message.
BBC Chinese Service reporter Martin Yip explains how the controversy unfolded and what it says about the limits of AI‑generated public education content.
