Cosplaying is not just to dress up; it is to bond with a much larger community with which you can relate and also feel closer to your favorite character. Is the new copyright law of Japan going to take away an activity that is so dearly loved by fans?
Over the years, cosplaying has spread worldwide and is now a favorite hobby to some while a comfortable place for others. Fans often cosplay at gatherings to feel a sense of belonging.
The copyright law protects original creators from getting their work exploited or duplicated. Will cosplaying your favorite character be considered an infringement of copyright?
ABEMA Prime Thank you for watching …! I was so nervous that my face was stiff, but I think I was able to talk about what I wanted to talk about! Cosplay copyright … I would like to keep an eye on what will happen in the future! #Amapura
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The Japanese government is currently considering a new copyright rule that will keep cosplaying activities in check.
Non-profit cosplayers will not be affected by it, but cosplaying as a means of income will be seen as a violation of the law.
Many cosplayers earn by receiving money for visiting conventions or having subscription services for their content.
The issue of whether cosplaying infringes upon the rights of creators has been discussed for years. However, Japan has not come to a concrete opinion yet.
The Japanese government is currently debating the possibilities by discussing it with cosplayers as well as copyright-holders. Enako, a famous cosplayer from Japan, is also currently invested in the ongoing discussions.
She is known for her income from cosplaying, and she is also an ambassador of Cool Japan. Her recent tweets show her take on the matter.
Also, I haven’t heard about the ban on SNS written in another article, so I’m worried about the truth.I am in a position where I should not speak easily, but I personally hope that SNS and coterie activities will not be regulated if it is non-profit.
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Enako is also worried about the take on cosplayers not getting to post on social media networks. The fact that Instagram has been pointed out as a membership exchange site is worrying.
Getting permission from original creators or depositing a fee can relieve the problem, but the fact that it is very difficult to get in contact with the creators is an obstacle in the way.
Taro Yamada, a member of the House of Councillors, has proposed a database of copyright holders. This will make the act of obtaining permission easier for cosplayers.
As the law currently stands, it does not protect the copyright holders or the cosplayers. Currently, Japan is trying to work out a way for copyright holders to be protected while also not damaging the cosplay culture.
The Japanese government is also against harsh laws because it will ultimately damage the anime culture as a whole.
Source: Nikkan Sports
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