Suspecting that the content created by its member companies is being used by OpenAI’s Sora 2 platform unlicensed, Japan-based Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA) submitted a written request to OpenAI on October 27, 2025.
CODA has confirmed that a large portion of content produced by Sora 2 closely resembles Japanese content or images. CODA has determined that this is the result of using Japanese content as machine learning data. In cases, as with Sora 2, where specific copyrighted works are reproduced or similarly generated as outputs, CODA considers that the act of replication during the machine learning process may constitute copyright infringement.
The requests submitted by CODA at this time are as follows:
- In the operation of Sora 2, CODA requests that its members’ content is not used for machine learning without their permission; and,
- OpenAI responds sincerely to claims and inquiries from CODA member companies regarding copyright infringement related to Sora 2’s outputs
Furthermore, according to media reports, it has been stated that Sora 2 responds through an opt-out system based on requests from copyright holders. However, under Japan’s copyright system, prior permission is generally required for the use of copyrighted works, and there is no system allowing one to avoid liability for infringement through subsequent objections.
A similar statement of concern was released by the Motion Picture Association earlier in October.
Why it matters
The conflict between the use of content by generative AI platforms before or after it is licensed is similar to the conflict in privacy practices. In the United States, companies almost universally opt consumers in to their privacy policies – including sale of consumers’ personal data – by default, and you must elect to opt out. In the European Union, the UK, and in some US states, it’s the opposite: Companies must respect privacy first and consumers are given the option to opt in.
CODA, in cooperation with its member companies, requests that OpenAI respond sincerely such that both the healthy development of AI technology and the protection of rightsholders and creators’ rights are ensured.
Further reading
CODA issues written request to OpenAI regarding Sora 2. Press release. October 28, 2025. Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA)
