Full Breakdown
Japanese Publishers Demand OpenAI Cease Unauthorized Use of Intellectual Property in Sora 2
11/2/2025, 4:25:54 AM
CODA's Formal Request to OpenAI
On October 28, 2025, the Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA), representing major Japanese publishers and producers, formally requested that OpenAI stop using its members' copyrighted content to train the generative AI tool Sora 2. This request follows the tool's launch on October 1, which has generated videos resembling well-known Japanese characters and styles, including those from franchises like Pokémon, Mario, and Dragon Ball. CODA's membership includes prominent companies such as Bandai Namco, Square Enix, Studio Ghibli, and Toei Animation. The association expressed concerns that Sora 2's outputs closely resemble copyrighted works, suggesting that this may constitute copyright infringement under Japanese law.
Concerns Over Copyright Infringement
CODA's request includes two main demands: that OpenAI immediately cease using its members' works for machine learning without prior permission and that the company respond sincerely to any copyright-infringement claims from CODA's members regarding Sora 2's outputs. The association emphasized that Japan's copyright system requires prior permission for the use of copyrighted material, contradicting OpenAI's opt-out approach, which does not align with Japanese legal standards. The Japanese government has also urged OpenAI to refrain from infringing on Japanese intellectual property.
Broader Industry Response
In addition to CODA, major Japanese manga publishers, including Shueisha and Kodansha, have warned of strict actions against OpenAI for unauthorized use of their intellectual property. They have called for the establishment of new laws to protect content in the age of AI and emphasized the need for an opt-in system, transparency in training data, and appropriate compensation for rights holders. These publishers have expressed their willingness to embrace generative AI technology but insist that it should not come at the expense of creators' rights.
Legal Challenges from Cameo
Simultaneously, OpenAI faces legal challenges from Cameo, a platform for personalized celebrity videos, which has filed a lawsuit against the tech company over its use of the "Cameo" name for a feature in Sora 2. Cameo's co-CEO, Steven Galanis, argues that OpenAI's use of the name dilutes their brand and creates consumer confusion. The lawsuit claims federal trademark infringement and seeks unspecified damages and an injunction against the use of the "Cameo" moniker.
Official Statements & Responses
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman acknowledged the deep connection between users and Japanese content, stating that the company aims to give rights holders more control over character generation. However, CODA and the Japanese publishers have criticized this response as insufficient, reiterating the need for prior permission and a more robust framework for copyright protection.
What's Next
As the situation develops, it remains uncertain how OpenAI will respond to the demands from both the Japanese creative industry and the legal challenges posed by Cameo. The potential implications for AI-generated content and copyright law are significant, as the industry navigates the balance between technological innovation and the protection of intellectual property rights.
