OpenAI’s Sora 2 is back in controversy as some of Japan’s most powerful entertainment companies are taking a stand against the platform. The group, represented by the Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA), has formally demanded that OpenAI stop using its copyrighted works to train its AI. CODA’s members include some of Japan’s most recognised names in anime and gaming, Studio Ghibli, Bandai Namco, Square Enix, Toei Animation, Kadokawa, and Aniplex.
These companies argue that a large amount of Sora 2-generated content mirrors the look and feel of iconic Japanese creations, indicating that their works were used in training without consent. Under Japanese copyright law, using copyrighted material requires prior approval, and there’s no legal basis for post-use opt-out systems. Yet, OpenAI’s current policy allows creators to exclude their content only after it’s been used, a setup CODA says violates Japan’s strict IP protections.
