Webtoon CEO Declares Human Creators Are Irreplaceable Storytellers Amid AI Debate!

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Forbes discussed the globally renowned Webtoon platform, owned by Korea and recognized as the biggest hub for manga, comics, and manhwa. Remarkably, their representative mentioned that while they do employ some AI technology, here’s an intriguing statement they made:

Next, Lee delved into the major topic at CES 2024: the apparent progression of artificial intelligence into everyday consumer devices.

According to CEO David Lee, we firmly believe that humans are exceptional storytellers when it comes to creating stories. While advanced technology, such as AI, offers fantastic tools, our goal is to empower human creators to generate superior quality work more efficiently while maintaining their unique styles. We don’t rely on technology for the sole purpose of demonstration. An AI may be capable of producing images or text, but it lacks the creativity that originates from a human creator. That idea of an AI delivering truly creative output is a misleading promise.

Lee mentioned that Webtoon’s AI investments are primarily focused on enhancing discoverability. Secondly, these investments aim to make it easier for creators who have heavy workloads to be more productive, thereby allowing them to boost their earnings and minimize the time spent on less important tasks like coloring.

Lee conceded that numerous innovators harbor deep reservations regarding AI, primarily because of moral issues surrounding its construction and also the perceived risk it poses to the artistic fields.

He stated, “Naturally, alterations provoke apprehension, but it’s crucial to remember that the way technology is employed and constructed plays a significant role. In developing our AI, we strive for collaboration with creators, utilizing intellectual property that belongs to us, is generously provided by supportive creators, or belongs to no one specifically in the public domain.

It’s worth noting that AI can certainly provide entertainment when it comes to getting a computer to create art or drawings for you. However, human artistry should not be completely replaced by AI. Artists must demonstrate their ability to carry out their creative missions from start to finish without relying on technology. If such tasks were achievable in the past, they can certainly be done today as well.

Of course, there are considerations like deadlines for publication. Yet, even in our current society, artists are expected to invest time into crafting their work, including storytelling and coloring, without relying solely on AI. For example, there was a period when some artists used watercolor paints. Today, this technique can still hold a lot of potential if an artist chooses to use it, which is why traditional hand-drawing should not be replaced by computer technology.

In regards to potential challenges Webtoon might encounter in a US political climate that’s unfavorable towards foreign businesses or imposes tariffs, Lee pointed out that “people appreciate a captivating tale regardless of its origin.” He further emphasized that Webtoon is incorporated in Delaware and headquartered in Los Angeles. He noted that content created by English-language authors, such as Lore Olympus by New Zealander Rachel Smythe, which has gained significant popularity, represents a promising growth sector not only for US consumers but also for readers worldwide.

As a fan, I can’t help but question the logic behind Forbes’ assertion that a company specializing in computer-based animation would be subjected to tariffs just because it operates in the U.S. It seems illogical, given the nature of their work. However, the emphasis on domestic production by Donald Trump is clear – promoting local job opportunities and manufacturing mainly in the USA. But shouldn’t we celebrate the success of foreign companies like Toyota and Honda who continue to thrive in the U.S. market? It feels like a stretch to suggest that the U.S. is opposed to foreign businesses operating there. I can’t help but wonder, where does Forbes draw the line between fair reporting and propagating such statements?

Wishing success to Webtoon on their journey, however, I find it questionable to promote a path that might tempt artists away from honing their true abilities through traditional hand-drawn art. Opting for the simpler route could potentially lead to being less skilled in the long run. Case in point: even Jim Starlin, despite his advanced age, has chosen to employ AI for an upcoming project – a move that shouldn’t be considered an acceptable shortcut.

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2025-02-13 18:03