The deepfakes, a technology that allows for the manipulation of images, videos, and audio to create false yet incredibly realistic content, continue to capture global attention. A recent study conducted by Kapwing in collaboration with NeoMam Studios has revealed which countries, states, and cities show the most interest in this phenomenon. The results, obtained from analyzing Google search data, show South Korea as the most obsessed country with deepfakes, with 13,399 searches per million internet users.
In comparison, the United States, one of the pioneering nations in technology, registers 1,701 searches per million people, indicating a significant gap. “I was surprised to see how low San Francisco ranked on the list, given its influence on modern technology. I also found it surprising that South Korea holds the top spot with a result 10 times higher than that of the United States. Not only is it first, it is far ahead of the rest,” commented Eric Lu, co-founder of Kapwing.
Deepfakes: Between Entertainment and Concern
The deepfakes have transcended their initial use as entertainment tools, used to make famous characters say or do funny things, and have become a serious concern in the political and security arenas. An emblematic example is the case of a financial employee in Hong Kong who transferred 25 million dollars to scammers after being deceived by a deepfake impersonating his CFO. This incident underscores the risks associated with this technology, especially in a world where misinformation and post-truth are commonplace.
Interest in deepfakes by Region
The Kapwing study not only analyzed global interest but also focused on the United States. Nevada ranked as the most interested state in deepfakes, with 1,300 searches per million inhabitants. In urban areas, Miami leads the list, with 1,930 searches per million people, followed by Atlanta (1,409) and Las Vegas (1,331). It is noteworthy that San Francisco, a technological epicenter, does not appear among the top positions, with only 729 searches per million inhabitants.
In Europe, the Czech Republic and Sweden lead the interest, with 11,356 and 10,443 searches respectively, while in Spain the number drops to 1,405 searches per million users. In Latin America, Argentina is the most interested country, with 713 searches, followed by Chile (481) and Brazil (386).
The Methodology Behind the Study
Kapwing utilized Google search data from December 2024, analyzing the top 100 keywords related to deepfakes. The search volumes were adjusted based on Google’s market share in each country and calculated per million internet users. This same process was repeated to rank states and cities within the U.S.
The Double-Edged Sword of Deepfakes
The accessibility of artificial intelligence tools to create deepfakes has democratized their use, but it has also increased their risks. “I think it’s the ease. Using AI tools for deepfakes is very easy and accessible,” Eric Lu pointed out.
This technology is presented as a double-edged sword: on one hand, it allows for aesthetic and creative advancements, but on the other, it threatens human rights, security, and trust in information. As its popularity grows, so does the need for regulation and awareness about its implications.
The Kapwing study not only reflects global interest in deepfakes, but also invites reflection on how society should address the challenges this technology poses in the 21st century.