Japan looks to clarify cosplay rules to prevent copyright violations

While wearing a character costume does not infringe copyright in Japan, a violation could occur if an individual is paid to do so

Some cosplayers have pointed to the need for a framework to enable them to contact copyright holders to secure permission

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Cosplayers pose for photographs during a game show. Some Japanese cosplayers have called for a framework to obtain copyright holders’ permission for costumes. Photo: AFP

Kyodoin Tokyo

Published: 11:04am, 31 Jan 2021Updated: 8:13pm, 31 Jan 2021

The Japanese government is planning to review copyright rules to prevent possible legal violations by costume role players, also known as cosplayers, as the number of people dressing up as animation and game characters in the country continues to grow.

While wearing a character costume does not infringe copyright, a violation could occur if an individual is paid to do so, such as to make an appearance at an event.

Shinji Inoue, minister in charge of the “Cool Japan” strategy for the promotion of Japanese pop culture overseas, said on Friday that the government plans to review commercial copyright rules regarding fair use by the end of the financial year in March.

Cosplayers at a costume event. Japan’s government is not planning to revise copyright law as it fears stricter regulations would drive people away from cosplay. Photo: AFP

“To further promote ‘cosplay’ culture, it is important to have an environment in which people can feel safe and enjoy themselves,” Inoue said.

The government is not planning to revise the copyright law as it fears stricter regulations would drive people away from cosplay. Instead, it plans to share specific examples of situations in which cosplayers may be asked to pay for copyright to enhance awareness.

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Japan looks to clarify cosplay rules to prevent copyright violations

While wearing a character costume does not infringe copyright in Japan, a violation could occur if an individual is paid to do so Some cosplayers have pointed to the need for a framework to enable them to contact copyright holders to secure permission

While wearing a character costume does not infringe copyright in Japan, a violation could occur if an individual is paid to do so

Some cosplayers have pointed to the need for a framework to enable them to contact copyright holders to secure permission