Photo credit: www.dexerto.com
The recent introduction of Satsuki Ai in Shueisha’s Playboy Magazine has prompted considerable discussion, primarily not because of her appearance, but rather due to her nature as a non-human entity.
As artificial intelligence technology continues to evolve, it has ignited a significant debate surrounding ethical considerations, copyright norms, and the implications for various industries — including modeling, which now faces challenges from virtual personas.
In April 2025, Shueisha’s Weekly Playboy, a notable Japanese magazine distinct from its American counterpart, unveiled its latest issue featuring Satsuki Ai as the model on its cover.
At first glance, the digital model appears to be a genuine person captured during a photoshoot. However, the reality is quite different and has drawn attention online.
AI-generated model sparks debate after Playboy debut
Satsuki Ai was crafted by Shueisha, a publisher renowned for its acclaimed manga series, including One Piece and Boruto. Her introduction to the fashion scene on the cover of Weekly Playboy, which occurred on April 14, was preceded by a reveal in the summer of 2023, during which excitement began to build.
To promote Satsuki’s unveiling, the magazine characterized her as the embodiment of an idealized “little sister type” with a cute, raccoon-like appearance, designed to appeal to male fantasies.
The company further remarked, “Even if she doesn’t exist in real life, the emotions she evokes are genuine.”
オトコの理想をギュギュッと詰め込んだ“たぬき顔”の“妹系美少女”が誕生
たとえ彼女は実在しなくても、芽生えた恋心はホンモノ
「AIグラビア」、あなたはアリですか？
グラジャパ！限定カット付き
さつきあい@ai_satsuki_ai
デジタル写真集『生まれたて。』https://t.co/X0yCy41KjF pic.twitter.com/bY8wLyldl1
— 週プレ@グラビア (@shupure) May 28, 2023
The response from the public reflected a split sentiment. Some commenters pointed out the practical benefits of featuring an AI model like Satsuki, including avoidance of scandals and logistical hassles associated with human models. One user noted, “No scandals, no need to adjust schedules, no agency NGs, no fees.”
Conversely, many expressed discontent with the concept, advocating for authentic photography featuring human beings. One user urged the publication to “take photos of people,” highlighting the desire for real human connection.
Another commenter speculated whether audiences would also dismiss a virtual model as they would a lesser-known celebrity, stating, “If there’s anything that would make people angry, it would be if it was revealed later that ‘this girl was actually an AI.’”
Satsuki’s debut in Playboy arrives at a pertinent moment when discussions about AI’s role in society are intensifying, particularly as the popularity of trends like the ChatGPT Ghibli image phenomenon has surged. This growing interest in AI-generated content has even reached the legislative level, prompting dialogues among Japanese lawmakers regarding its legality.
Source
www.dexerto.com