Japan arts workers' survey reveals harm from generative AI, calls for copyright action

TOKYO -- Many illustrators say that artificial intelligence (AI) has had damaging effects on their jobs, according to tentative results of a survey by a Tokyo-based association.

Arts Workers Japan conducted a survey on the impact of AI-generated art, and interim results were announced on May 15. The general incorporated association is made up of voice actors, musicians, writers and other freelance workers in the creative fields. The questionnaire received 25,560 responses between when it was posted online on May 8, and May 14.

Ninety-four percent of respondents expressed worries over issues such as copyright infringement caused by AI. Specifically, in multiple responses, 92% feared their works were being scraped by AIs without permission, 62% were concerned about their techniques being stolen, and 51% were anxious about reduced earnings. Also, 59% worried AI will mean fewer opportunities for work.

In the additional comment space, a number of illustrators and others claimed AI has already caused damage. These included, "An obscene collage was created using images of a deceased relative by an overseas AI art generator. I didn't get any response to my request for its removal," and, "Various illustration data was used as material for the AI training process," along with comments claiming their art style has been copied or their works plagiarized by AI.

Since confirming that AI can imitate voice actors, many of the latter have been affected as well. Calls for government action such as revisions of copyright law were mentioned by 5,657 respondents.

Megumi Morisaki, the association's president, pointed out, "Terrible practices are taking place that seriously threaten (creative workers') activities." The survey's final results are set to be presented to the government with demands for countermeasures.

(Japanese original by Hiroyuki Harada, Digital News Group)