Japan's New Amended Copyright Law

Cosplay At Risk?

By Epic Dope Staff | January 26, 2021

Cosplaying is not just to dress up; it is to bond with a larger community with which you can relate. Is Japan's new copyright law going to take it away?

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 those who use cosplaying as a means of income will be seen as a violation of the law.

Many cosplayers earn through cosplaying by receiving money for visiting conventions or having subscription services for their content.

The Japanese government is currently debating the possibilities with cosplayers & copyright-holders.

Enako, a cosplayer, is also invested in the ongoing discussions. Enako is worried about the take on cosplayers not getting to post on social media.

Taro Yamada has proposed a database of copyright holders, making obtaining permission easier for cosplayers.

The law currently doesn't protect the copyright holders or the cosplayers. The harsh laws will ultimately damage the anime culture as a whole.