As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize the content industry, discussions surrounding the copyright of AI-generated content are intensifying. AI has the ability to learn from vast amounts of data and generate new text, images, music, and videos. In some cases, AI has even produced works comparable to those created by human artists. However, the question remains: should AI-generated content receive legal protection, and how can the rights of original creators be safeguarded?
Can AI-Generated Content Be Copyrighted?
The copyright issues related to AI-generated content can be divided into two key questions. First, can AI itself be recognized as a creator? Second, does AI training on existing data constitute copyright infringement?
Under most current legal frameworks, copyright protection is granted only to works created by humans. This means that content generated solely by AI is not eligible for copyright protection, while works created using AI as a tool by humans can be protected. However, there is an emerging argument that AI’s creative capabilities should be acknowledged, and that AI developers or operators should own the rights to AI-generated content.
Another major concern is the potential copyright infringement occurring during AI’s learning process. AI systems often train on vast amounts of pre-existing data, sometimes without the original creators’ consent. This has led to legal disputes, such as the lawsuit against the AI music generator “Suno” by major record labels over unauthorized learning. Additionally, the world-renowned auction house Christie’s plans to hold its first auction dedicated to AI art, prompting backlash from artists who argue that their work has been used without permission.
Legal Challenges in Addressing AI Copyright Issues
Countries, including South Korea, are in the process of developing legislation to address AI-related copyright issues. However, there are still gaps in regulations regarding the disclosure and tracking of data used in AI learning. One pressing issue is whether AI training on copyrighted materials falls under fair use, and clear legal guidelines are needed.
While AI advancements can drive innovation in the content industry, it is crucial to establish legal and ethical standards that protect the rights of creators and ensure a fair creative environment. Ongoing discussions are necessary to determine whether AI can be considered a creator, who should own the rights to AI-generated content, and how to prevent copyright infringement in AI training.
To achieve a harmonious coexistence between AI and human creators, social consensus and institutional support are essential. Striking a balance between technological progress and creator rights will be the key challenge moving forward.