The Japan Actors Union has issued new guidelines aimed at curbing the unauthorized use of generative AI technology for replicating voice performances

The Japan Actors Union has released a set of guidelines aimed at preventing unauthorized use of generative AI to mimic voice performances.

According to Automaton, the union's recommendations require consent at every phase of AI usage, especially before training models based on an actor's voice work.

When AI reproduces a voice performance, it is considered a new performance, thus necessitating further royalties or compensation for involved actors.

For posthumous actors, AI can only recreate their voices if consent was given while they were alive. There is also a requirement for developers or AI companies to get approval from the deceased's family and their associated agency or company, along with paying royalties.

The guidelines extend to AI-enabled automatic translations into other languages, stipulating that such translations must uphold the original performance's "artistic integrity" and cannot be used internationally without consent.

The union expressed its commitment to establishing these guidelines as industry norms and to advocating for government regulations to safeguard 'voice rights'.

"While technology continues to evolve, the essence of 'living, breathing human expression' and 'respect for rights' should always be preserved," the union stated.

Last year, research indicated that a majority of Japanese game developers incorporate generative AI in their processes, predominantly for visual assets, character design, story creation, text, and programming aids.

In 2023, SAG-AFTRA members endorsed a strike against several major publishers to secure performers' rights against AI and ensure job protection.

After an 11-month strike, members approved the 2025 SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media Video Game Agreement, which placed safety measures around AI, including requirements for consent and the option for performers to withdraw consent for generating new material during a strike.

Recently, UKIE announced a collaboration with the legal firm Sheridans to provide an AI Compliance and Accreditation Service designed to help UK studios navigate the legal and responsible use of AI.