Japan Officially Requests OpenAI to Stop Using Copyrighted Anime Content

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Japan has formally asked OpenAI to stop using copyrighted anime in its AI-generated content.

This request follows the recent release of Sora 2, a tool that generates realistic 20-second videos. Following its launch, numerous unauthorized clips featuring popular characters from anime like One Piece, Pokémon, and Demon Slayer began appearing online.

Japan’s intellectual property officials say that AI-generated content is violating the rights of anime artists and creators.

Minister Minoru Kiuchi stressed the need to safeguard Japan’s cultural exports, describing anime and manga as globally popular “cultural treasures.” He also pointed out the government’s difficulty in balancing support for new AI technologies with protecting the originality of Japanese creative content.

Government officials, like Digital Minister Masaaki Taira, are asking companies to respect copyright laws when using AI. Although there are no current fines for breaking these rules under the new AI Promotion Act, the government can investigate harmful uses of AI, suggesting they might introduce stricter regulations later if companies don’t follow these guidelines.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, stated they will implement protections giving creators more say in how their characters are used in AI-generated videos. He also acknowledged the strong cultural influence of Japan and the close relationship fans have with Japanese media. However, many Japanese creators and fans believe AI is currently using their work without permission.

Japanese companies like Nintendo are making it clear they’ll protect their characters from being used without permission in AI-generated content. This is similar to what’s happening in the US and Europe, where entertainment companies are taking AI businesses to court over copyright issues.

What’s happening with AI and art is a huge conversation globally, and it’s really hitting home here in Japan. For us, protecting anime and manga isn’t just about legal issues – it’s about defending the incredible art and stories that people all over the world love and connect with. It’s about preserving a big part of what makes our culture special.

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2025-10-15 14:00