18 Anime and Manga Companies Release Joint Statement Criticizing Sora2’s Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence – News

Eighteen Japanese companies on Friday issued a joint statement criticizing the use of OpenAI’s Sora2 AI video-audio generation system. Together with the Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA), they determined that Sora2 was producing content that resembled works and images originally created by companies.

According to the statement, Sora2 uses copyrighted works for machine learning, resulting in results that closely resemble the companies’ content. Sora2 uses an opt-out system rather than a consent system, meaning that in theory any work can be used in the app as long as companies don’t demand that their works be removed, which is another instance of copyright infringement, as Japan’s copyright law protects created works and requires permission to use them.

CODA requested that Sora2 not use its member companies’ content for machine learning without permission, and that OpenAI respond to their claims of copyright infringement to protect the works of creators and ensure the healthy development of AI technology. The companies also asked for changes to Sora2’s content licensing system, transparency of machine learning data, and appropriate compensation for rights holders who grant permission to use their works. The statement assures that the companies support the development of AI technology. However, they will not tolerate copyright infringement and will take legal action if necessary.

Involved companies Akita Shoten, Ichijinsha, Ozora Publishing House, Kadokawa, Comix, Kodansha, Shogakukan, Shonegahosh, Shinchosha, Square Enix, Takeshobo, TO the Book, Nihon Bungeisha, Hakusensha, Futabasha, Houbunsha, LEED Publishing Houseand the Nihon Mangaka Kyokai (Japan Cartoonists Association).

OpenAI launched Sora2 on September 30.

Source: Kai-Yu through Hachima Kiko, Nihon Mangaka Kyokai, CODA, Kodansha

Disclosure: Kadokawa World Entertainment (KWE), a subsidiary of Kadokawa Corporation, is the principal owner of Anime News Network, LLC. One or more of the companies mentioned in this article are part of the Kadokawa group of companies.