Japan Demands OpenAI Halt Use of Copyrighted Anime in AI Videos

Japan has formally asked OpenAI to stop using copyrighted anime in AI-generated videos, following concerns about unauthorized content appearing online.

The controversy centers on Sora 2, an AI tool capable of producing realistic 20-second videos, which has been used to create clips featuring popular anime characters from One Piece, Pokémon, Demon Slayer, and other franchises without permission.

The news was reported by Japan’s Intellectual Property Strategy Headquarters.

Minister of State Minoru Kiuchi highlighted the cultural importance of anime and manga, calling them assets that “captivate the world.”

He stressed that Japan wants to stay at the forefront of AI innovation under the new AI Promotion Act, but not at the expense of its creative industries. Digital Minister Masaaki Taira and other lawmakers also urged companies to voluntarily comply with copyright rules, hinting that stricter regulations could follow if violations continue.

The AI Promotion Act does not have specific penalties yet, but it gives the government authority to investigate harmful AI practices. This means that if companies like OpenAI fail to act responsibly, they could face regulatory consequences in the future.

In response, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said the company would introduce new safeguards to give rights holders more control over how their characters appear in AI-generated videos. He acknowledged the “deep connection” that fans have with Japanese media, highlighting its global influence.

Despite these promises, many in Japan feel the damage is already done. Studios and fans are frustrated, saying foreign tech companies are exploiting Japanese culture without consent. Nintendo also spoke out, reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy on unauthorized AI use of its characters.

This dispute comes amid a wider global debate about AI and copyright, with lawsuits in the West targeting similar infringements. Japan’s approach could set a new standard for protecting intellectual property while balancing AI innovation. For the country, defending anime and manga is about more than law—it’s about preserving the soul of its storytelling.

This is a necessary step to protect creative industries. AI can be a powerful tool, but respecting artists’ work should come first. What do you think about AI using copyrighted characters? Share your thoughts in the comments.