Japan’s Publishers Warn OpenAI: Stop Training Sora 2 on Anime and Game IP
- Sagar Mankar
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Japan’s Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA) has formally requested that OpenAI stop using copyrighted Japanese works to train its new video‑generating AI, Sora 2.
On October 28, CODA, which represents some of Japan’s biggest publishers and studios, submitted a written request to OpenAI. As first reported by Automaton, the association raised concerns that Sora 2’s outputs strongly resemble copyrighted Japanese content, including works from Bandai Namco, Square Enix, Studio Ghibli, Kadokawa, Toei Animation, and Aniplex. CODA argues that this resemblance suggests Japanese intellectual property was used in training the model without permission.
Sora 2, launched on October 1, allows users to generate short video clips. Within days of release, social media was flooded with AI‑generated videos mimicking the style of anime and games, with clear nods to Pokémon, Mario, One Piece, Dragon Ball, and Demon Slayer. Even OpenAI CEO Sam Altman acknowledged in a blog post that the tool revealed “how deep the connection between users and Japanese content is.”
CODA’s statement makes two key demands. First, that OpenAI immediately stop using its members’ works for machine learning without prior approval. Second, that the company respond sincerely to copyright claims and inquiries from CODA’s members regarding Sora 2’s outputs.
While OpenAI reportedly contacted some studios and agencies before launch to offer an opt‑out system, CODA stresses that under Japanese copyright law, prior permission is required. In other words, an opt‑out approach would not protect OpenAI from liability.
This isn’t the first warning OpenAI has received in Japan. Earlier, the Japanese government also urged the company to avoid infringing on domestic intellectual property. At a press conference, Minoru Kiuchi, Minister of State for IP and AI Strategy, described anime and manga as “irreplaceable treasures” and emphasized their cultural importance. Alongside Digital Minister Masaaki Taira, he warned that if OpenAI does not comply voluntarily, the government could invoke the AI Promotion Act, which came into effect in September 2025. While the act doesn’t impose direct penalties, it gives authorities the power to investigate AI usage when rights are at risk.
For context, CODA was established in 2002 to combat piracy and promote the legal distribution of Japanese content worldwide. Last year, they shut down 15 anime sites promoting piracy in Brazil. Its membership spans the country’s most influential gaming and entertainment companies, making this request a significant move in the ongoing debate over AI and copyright.
As of now, OpenAI has not issued a public response to CODA’s demands.