Tokyo Actors Union Issues AI Rules to Prevent Unauthorized Use of Voices

The Japan Actors Union has crafted guidelines for the utilization of generative artificial intelligence to avert unauthorized use of voices. This union, consisting of approximately 2,600 actors and voice actors, has established operational rules mandating businesses to secure prior authorization and remuneration when training AI on voices.

The guidelines, announced on Thursday, aim to safeguard the rights of voice actors and the value of their voices, while fostering the secure use of generative AI. Businesses must plainly articulate the purpose of AI training in writing, obtain consent, and pay adequate compensation. Furthermore, the rules emphasize stringent data management and permit requests for disclosure of operational records.

The guidelines also implicitly preclude the use of deceased performers' voice data for AI, unless such use is unavoidable and no alternative is available. In such cases, the use must be limited to supplementing unfinished work, necessitating written consent from bereaved families and payment of appropriate usage fees. Presently, no laws explicitly delineate voice rights, and the government is contemplating legal revisions.

In a case brought forth by renowned voice actor Kenjiro Tsuda concerning the imitation of his voice through generative AI, the Tokyo District Court issued a milestone ruling on September 30, acknowledging that voices are entitled to legal protection. Michihiro Ikemizu, a voice actor and vice president of the union, stated at a press conference in Tokyo that the union hopes to establish a precedent and encourage the creation of relevant laws through this initiative.

Masako Nozawa, another vice president, conveyed a video message, expressing her hope for everyone to adhere to the guidelines, so that humans and AI could coexist harmoniously.