Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, is once again at the centre of a viral internet trend. This time, it's not about a new AI model but a quirky feature that allows users to transform their ordinary photos into glamorous K-pop icons. The global frenzy around K-pop fandoms has found a new playground in artificial intelligence, offering fans a chance to see themselves with superstar flair.
How Sam Altman Kicked Off the Hype
The buzz began when Sam Altman himself shared his AI-generated K-pop makeover on the social media platform X. The official ChatGPT account posted a photo showing Altman reimagined as a K-pop idol, complete with sharp fashion, glowing skin, and confident idol swagger. This move by the tech boss served as an open invitation, proving that AI-generated visuals are not just for developers but for everyone to enjoy and experiment with.
The Exact Prompt to Create Your K-Pop Avatar
The magic lies in a detailed prompt shared by Altman. Users simply need to upload their photo to ChatGPT and paste this instruction:
"Using the provided image of the subject as reference, transform them into a K-pop idol–style version of themselves, fully preserving their natural facial features, skin tone, ethnicity, and identity. Style the subject with a polished, high-fashion idol aesthetic inspired by contemporary K-pop concept photoshoots... The final image should feel like an authentic K-pop concept photo - crisp, stylish, and aspirational - projecting polished charisma and star presence while clearly remaining the same person."
This prompt ensures your core features stay intact while applying the signature K-pop aesthetic of flawless skin, dramatic lighting, and fashion-forward outfits.
Who Can Use It and How It Works
The best part is that this feature is completely free for all users worldwide. OpenAI confirmed in a blog post that the new image generation model is rolling out globally. There's no need to select a specific model; it works across the platform on both the ChatGPT app and web version.
The process is straightforward:
- Head to the ChatGPT app or website.
- Upload a clear photo of yourself.
- Copy and paste the exact prompt provided by Altman.
- Hit generate and watch the AI work its magic.
The result is a professional-looking concept photo that maintains your identity but amps up the star quality. The feature has sparked a wave of creativity, with K-pop fans remixing their looks, friends pranking each other, and even brands exploring possibilities for custom visual content.
This viral trend underscores the growing accessibility of advanced AI tools for creative expression. What started as a fun experiment by the OpenAI CEO has now become a global phenomenon, allowing millions to tap into the glamorous world of K-pop with just a simple prompt and a photo.
