[MZ Column] The Era of AI Content Creation... Growing Concerns Over Copyright

Recently, issues related to copyright infringement, such as the 'content theft controversy' on YouTube, have become increasingly intense. While it is necessary to carefully examine whether infringement has occurred in specific cases, there is no doubt that the general act of directly copying someone else's content constitutes copyright infringement. In particular, on YouTube, problems with potential copyright infringement, such as closely imitating popular videos, have been frequent.

Recently, with the development of individual media, anyone can become a content creator. Anyone can become a writer by publishing their own posts using blogs or social networking services (SNS). Also, anyone can broadcast their own shows through various podcasts or YouTube channels. Since there are no special restrictions on this, it is truly an era where everyone can be a creator.

However, just because anyone can produce content does not mean all content is allowed. If content that is not permitted on certain platforms, such as adult material, is uploaded, the content will naturally be deleted and the user will face disadvantages. However, it seems that the fact that 'copyright-infringing content' is also included in the scope of 'not allowed' is not widely recognized.

Nevertheless, copyright infringement is also a serious matter that can clearly lead to criminal punishment. In particular, Korea's Copyright Act stipulates penalties for copyright infringement comparable to those for theft under criminal law. It is not an exaggeration to say that copyright infringement is regarded as clear 'theft' no less than stealing physical property.

More people than ever in human history are engaging in content creation, and there is an abundance of content. Ironically, this era is becoming the most vulnerable time for protecting each other's content. Rather, as many people recognize the value of their own creations, it is necessary to also cherish the creations of others.

Recently, the growth of artificial intelligence (AI) such as ChatGPT has been explosively rapid, to the point where some say a 'singularity' has arrived. However, most AI operates on the basic logic of editing existing data. But if you look closely, the data AI uses is often not just simple 'data' but completed 'works.' Therefore, this can also constitute the use of others' copyrighted works and may lead to copyright infringement if used without permission.

Although relevant laws or government guidelines have not yet been established, it will be difficult for AI-produced works to completely avoid copyright issues.

Furthermore, to protect creators' legitimate copyrights, some regulation may be necessary regarding AI's creation of secondary works by freely editing others' copyrighted works. Of course, it is also important not to hinder IT development, so an appropriate balance must be found.

As such, in this new era, which is an era of content, copyright issues are emerging as a core concern. Copyright protection is very important for the flourishing of culture and coexistence among creators. In particular, unauthorized copying of each other's content must be strictly guarded against. If someone has referenced another's content, honestly citing, acknowledging the contribution, and indicating the source can be an important starting point for fostering a good culture. Citation, recognition, indication, and respect are needed rather than theft or plagiarism.

Jung Ji-woo, Attorney and Cultural Critic

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.