What happened

A "Fukuoka Connection Support" website launched early November 2024 to showcase the prefecture's attractions and culture. 

However, shortly after its launch, it was discovered that the site featured numerous inaccuracies, including nonexistent attractions such "Uminaka Happiness World" and outdated references to closed sites such as "Kashii Kaen Sylvania Garden." 

In addition, the site promoted am entirely fictitious dish called the "Koga sashimi set."

Why it happened

The Tokyo-based web company that used generative AI to develop the marketing website's content claims it went through verification process, but that this had proved inadequate. 

The Fukuoka Municipal Government was not informed about the use of AI in the campaign and, following a public outcry and complaints from residents, the authority pulled the campaign and fired the marketing agency.