Sora 2 Copyright Issue: Legal Risks and AI Policy Shift
Oct 07, 2025
Sora 2 Copyright Issue: Legal Risks and AI Policy Shift
In October 2025, OpenAI launched “Cameo” inside Sora 2. The tool lets users add real faces and voices to AI videos. Soon after, clips of celebrities filled the web.
Pikachu and other icons went viral. CEO Sam Altman did not share them. But the launch caused an instant backlash. On October 4, OpenAI added new filters. It showed a move toward responsible AI.
Three Legal Issues with Sora 2
AI creation has three steps: training, generation, and output. Japan’s Copyright Act Article 30-4 allows data use for training. But once output is shared, legal risks arise.
Issue 1: When Does Output Become Copying?
Imitating a character’s look or voice may count as copying.
A Pikachu-style clip is not analysis. It copies creative parts of the original. Only the rights-holder can approve that. So, without consent, it likely breaks copyright law.
Issue 2: Can Developers Be Liable?
If misuse is easy to predict and ignored, developers may be liable.
The Winny Case in Japan set that rule. A developer is liable if they knew or could foresee misuse but did nothing. In Sora 2, such misuse was obvious. Thus, OpenAI’s duty of care increased.
Attorney Sumida’s View: OpenAI’s global reach heightens its duty. The new filters are a first step toward compliance.
Issue 3: Uploading and Public Transmission
Posting AI videos ends private use and triggers public rights.
Private copying is legal only for personal use. But once uploaded, it becomes public. That act breaches the creator’s transmission rights.
- Uploader: Direct infringer who posts the clip.
- Platform: Liable if misuse continues unchecked.
Preventive Duty in AI
Altman’s October 4 comment marked a turn. AI firms must act before damage occurs. Prevention now defines responsible AI. Early filters are not optional but essential.
This will be explained separately in connection with the Act on Measures for Information Distribution Platforms.
FAQ: Sora 2 and Copyright
Q1. Can AI learn from copyrighted data?
A1. Yes. Article 30-4 allows it for analysis. But copying faces or voices is not permitted.
Q2. Can I post parody clips online?
A2. No. Private viewing is fine. Uploading them violates public rights.
Author
Akasaka International Law & Accounting Office
Attorney Shinji Sumida
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