Japanese Rights Holders Challenge OpenAI Over Copyrighted Content
On October 28, the Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA), representing key Japanese publishers and producers like Bandai Namco, Square Enix, and Studio Ghibli, formally requested OpenAI to cease using copyrighted Japanese works in training its AI model, Sora 2. This development, initially reported by Automaton, highlights escalating concerns in Japan regarding the management of intellectual property by the AI tool, Sora 2.
Sora 2 was introduced by OpenAI on October 1, enabling users to create brief video clips. Following its launch, social media platforms saw a surge in videos that mirrored popular Japanese animations and characters, featuring elements from iconic series such as Pokemon, Mario, One Piece, Dragon Ball, and Demon Slayer. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, expressed his astonishment at the profound engagement between the AI-generated content and Japanese cultural elements in a post-launch statement.
CODA Stands Against Unauthorized Use of Intellectual Property
Established in 2002, CODA aims to combat piracy and promote the authorized distribution of Japanese content globally. Its notable members include giants from the Japanese entertainment sector such as Cygames, Toei Animation, Kadokawa Corporation, and Aniplex. CODA has observed that a significant portion of the outputs from Sora 2 bear a strong resemblance to Japanese intellectual property (IP), suggesting unauthorized use of these materials as training data for the AI. They warned that such actions might constitute copyright infringement under Japanese law.
In its communication with OpenAI, CODA made two key requests: firstly, for OpenAI to halt the utilization of their copyrighted materials for machine learning purposes without prior consent; and secondly, for OpenAI to earnestly address any claims of copyright infringement and respond to inquiries regarding the outputs of Sora 2. Although OpenAI had reached out to some studios and agencies to discuss an opt-out option before launching Sora 2, it’s unclear if Japanese rights holders were included in these discussions. CODA highlighted that Japan’s copyright laws require prior authorization, indicating that the opt-out option would not absolve OpenAI from potential legal responsibility.
Japanese Government Steps In
Earlier in the month, the Japanese government also intervened, urging OpenAI to avoid infringing on Japanese IPs in relation to Sora 2. During a press briefing, Minoru Kiuchi, the Minister of State for IP and AI Strategy, referred to anime and manga as essential cultural assets of Japan. Together with Digital Minister Masaaki Taira, Kiuchi warned that the government might employ measures under the AI Promotion Act, which was fully enacted in September 2025, if OpenAI does not voluntarily comply. While the Act does not specify penalties, it does authorize the government to conduct investigations into AI practices that potentially infringe on copyright.
The response from OpenAI to these pressing demands from the Japanese creative sectors and the government remains to be seen, leaving industry observers and stakeholders in suspense over the potential outcomes of this dispute.
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Ava covers the intersection of celebrity culture and social media, keeping up with the ever-changing world of online influencers and viral moments.