Chinese Tech Firm Develops AI Replica of Former Employee Amid Controversy Over Continued 'Contributions

China-Based Game Firm Creates Digital Worker Using AI, Raising Ethical Concerns

A company in northern China has sparked a fresh debate around workplace ethics and artificial intelligence after developing a digital version of a former employee to continue his role even after he quit. The incident involves a game firm based in Shandong province, which created an AI-powered "digital worker" modelled on an ex-employee from its human resources team.

According to a report in South China Morning Post, the company used data and materials from the individual's time at work to train the system, allowing it to replicate parts of his job. The AI avatar has been assigned routine HR responsibilities, including responding to employee queries, managing schedules, and preparing basic office documents such as presentations and spreadsheets.

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The digital persona introduces itself clearly, stating that it is based on a former employee and will answer questions using knowledge derived from past work records. A staff member reportedly noted that the tool is still in an internal testing phase, admitting that the avatar is not yet fully refined.

The company claims that the former employee had consented to the use of his data for this purpose. The AI model was reportedly trained on documents, communications, and workflows that the employee had previously handled or created during his tenure. However, the development has raised legal and ethical concerns.

Fu Jian, a legal expert and director at Henan Zejin Law Firm, warned that workplace data such as emails, chat logs, and behavioural patterns fall under personal information protections. In some cases, such data may even be classified as sensitive. He emphasized that companies must obtain clear and informed consent before using such data for AI training, and that any unauthorized use of an employee's work materials could violate privacy and data protection laws.

In serious cases, such violations could lead to strict penalties, including prison sentences and fines. The company's broader automation plans, including the possibility of humanoid robot staff in the future, have also raised concerns. These systems could eventually take over front-desk roles, assist visitors, and handle basic administrative functions within offices.

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