Japanese publishers demand OpenAI cease Sora 2 training on their creative works

Japan's Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA), representing major publishers including Bandai Namco, Square Enix, and Studio Ghibli, has formally requested that OpenAI stop using their copyrighted content to train its video-generation AI tool Sora 2.

The details:

• On October 27, the organization claimed that a substantial portion of Sora 2's outputs closely resemble Japanese intellectual property, suggesting the model was trained on Japanese content without permission. Under Japan's copyright system, prior authorization is required before using copyrighted material, while Sora 2 uses all content unless copyright holders explicitly refuse. CODA emphasized that "there is no system allowing one to avoid liability for infringement through subsequent objections."
• CODA has made two formal requests of OpenAI. First, it requests that the work of its members not be used for machine learning without prior permission. The second request is that OpenAI "respond sincerely" to copyright infringement claims and inquiries from CODA member companies regarding Sora 2's outputs.
• The Japanese government has similarly voiced its concerns, with Minister of State for IP and AI Strategy Minoru Kiuchi describing anime and manga as "irreplaceable treasures" representing Japan's cultural pride. Officials have warned that if OpenAI fails to comply voluntarily with these requests, the government may invoke provisions under the AI Promotion Act, which came fully into effect in September 2025, granting authorities the power to investigate AI usage when intellectual property rights are infringed.
• OpenAI CEO Sam Altman acknowledged similar concerns in a blog post shared shortly after Sora 2’s launch in September, stating that the company plans to give rightsholders more control over the use of their IPs in generated content, as well as share revenue with those companies. However, CODA and Japanese officials view these promises as insufficient, demanding immediate action and genuine compliance with Japanese copyright law rather than future promises.