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 published new guidelines to stop people from using generative AI to copy actors' voices without permission.

According to Automaton, the union recommends getting permission at every stage of AI use. This is especially important before training AI models using recordings of an actor's voice performances.

When AI copies a voice performance, the result counts as a new performance. This means the actors involved should receive extra royalties or other payment.

AI can copy the voice of an actor who has died only if the actor gave permission while they were alive. AI developers or companies must also get approval from the person's family and the agency or company linked to the actor. They must also pay royalties.

The guidelines also cover AI tools that automatically translate performances into other languages. These translations must respect the original performance's artistic integrity, meaning they must preserve its creative quality and intent. The translations cannot be used internationally without permission.

The union said it wants these guidelines to become standard practice across the industry. It also plans to ask the government to introduce rules that protect people's rights over how their voices are used. These are known as 'voice rights'.

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

Last year, research showed that most Japanese game developers use generative AI in their work. They mainly use it to create visual assets, design characters, develop stories, write text, and help with programming.

In 2023, members of SAG-AFTRA voted to approve a strike against several major publishers to protect performers' rights against AI and help protect their jobs.

After an 11-month strike, members approved the 2025 SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media Video Game Agreement. The agreement introduced protections for performers when AI is used. These include rules requiring permission and allowing performers to withdraw permission to create new material during a strike.

Recently, UKIE announced a partnership with the law firm Sheridans to provide an AI Compliance and Accreditation Service. The service aims to help UK game studios understand how to use AI legally and responsibly.