Japan Actors Union issues guidelines for generative AI voice use

The Japan Actors Union (JAU) has released its first set of guidelines regarding the use of generative AI to replicate voice performances. The guidelines aim to protect the rights of approximately 2,600 members by requiring written consent and compensation at every stage of AI involvement, including model training, voice generation, and public use.

Key provisions of the guidelines include:

• Mandatory written consent: Companies cannot use one-time buyout contracts to secure future rights; consent must be specific and renewed periodically. • Compensation: AI-related usage must be paid separately from standard performance fees, covering model training and multi-language use. • Human-centric principle: The guidelines state that animation and film dubbing should, in principle, be performed by humans rather than AI. • Protection of deceased actors: The use of AI to replicate the voices of deceased performers is strictly limited and requires consent from bereaved families.

Prominent voice actors have voiced their opposition to unauthorized AI use. Masako Nozawa, known for voicing Goku in ‘Dragon Ball’, described unauthorized voice cloning as ‘no different from theft.’ Bin Shimada, who voiced Broly, expressed anger over AI-generated content featuring his voice singing songs he never performed. While the guidelines are currently voluntary industry standards rather than law, the JAU hopes they will serve as a foundation for future legislative protections regarding voice rights in Japan.