The MZ (Millennial + Z) generation is taking an increased interest in 'AI Profile,' a recent release by Naver's subsidiary SNOW, a popular photo filter app. However, concerns have emerged regarding the actual usability of the AI-generated photos.

AI Profile is a service that offers high-quality artificial intelligence-generated photos resembling studio-taken pictures. By uploading 10 to 20 facial photos, users can obtain a studio-quality profile photo developed using AI. The service comes in two variants: the basic product, priced at 3,300 KRW (2.55 USD), delivers results within 24 hours, while the premium product, costing 6,600 KRW (5.09 USD), guarantees quick results within an hour. The photos provided showcase various hairstyles and makeup styles, catering to preferences such as short or long hair.

Since its release by SNOW on May 25, AI Profile has gained tremendous popularity, causing temporary service disruptions due to heavy traffic. A SNOW representative stated, "The user base for AI profiles has grown rapidly in a short span, leading to occasional errors for some users."

The MZ generation's interest in this service can be attributed to its resemblance to 'color ID photos,' which have recently gained popularity among young people. Traditional studio photography for profile pictures with a colored background costs up to 100,000 to 200,000 KRW, making AI Profile an affordable alternative that spares individuals from visiting a photo studio.

Lee (age 26), a job seeker who tried the AI Profile service, shared, "Since everyone around me had given it a shot, I was curious about the results. I made an AI profile using a picture I had taken previously. Though it may seem far-fetched, if the service continues to improve, eliminating the need for a photo studio, I believe these photos could be used for resumes or resident registration cards."

As the interest in AI profiles continues to surge, some individuals wonder, "Can we use these photos for official documents like resumes and portfolios?" The AI profile closely resembles photos taken at actual color photo studios. However, experts widely advise against using AI profiles for purposes like resumes.

An official from Job Korea, an employment platform, remarked, "While some adjustments are made even to studio-taken photos, AI-generated photos differ significantly." They emphasized the importance of submitting professionally taken photos for this reason. 

A representative from the education industry also stated, "Currently, many people submit photos following the popular color profile ID photos for their applications. It's crucial to have a clear photo that best represents your impression on the resume."

According to a survey conducted by Job Korea on the 'impact of appearance and impression on interviews' targeting hiring managers, 58.2% of respondents emphasized the influence of 'impression' over appearance during interviews. 

This sentiment extends to resume photos as well. Instead of conforming to conventional beauty standards, hiring managers prioritize photos that convey an impression reflecting an individual's career status, the field of expertise, and alignment with company values.

Hence, experts recommend avoiding using apps such as AI Profile and excessively edited photos. A Job Korea official advised, "Many applicants submit retouched photos to portray a more polished image. However, if the alterations are too severe, they can actually hinder your performance in the interview. A genuine and favorable impression will have a stronger impact and can be achieved by just balancing out the lighting and cleaning up the skin tone."