Taiwanese Candidate Criticized for Unauthorized 'One Piece' AI Video

You Shu-chen, a candidate for the Hualien County magistrate position and considered a successor to legislator Fu Kun-chi, faces criticism over an AI-generated promotional video. The video, posted on her social media accounts, depicted You dressed as Monkey D. Luffy from the popular Japanese anime "One Piece," complete with a straw hat and a Hakka-style floral vest. The AI-generated clip also featured synthesized versions of other "One Piece" characters, such as Zoro, Sanji, and Nami, engaging in activities at local Hualien landmarks like Qixingtan Beach and a dusk market.

Netizens quickly condemned the video, accusing it of copyright infringement and reporting the unauthorized use of "One Piece" characters to Toei Animation, the Japanese company that holds the intellectual property rights. The backlash prompted You's campaign team to remove the video shortly after its release. Critics argued that as a candidate for public office, You should understand and respect copyright laws, regardless of whether the use was commercial or for personal promotion.

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The video should have been taken down immediately. I emphasized that there was no commercial marketing or political propaganda using the One Piece IP.

In response, You stated that the video was intended to promote local attractions in Ji'an Township and was a creative effort by her social media editor, not a form of political propaganda or commercial exploitation. She emphasized that the video was taken down immediately upon realizing the issue and that no profit was derived from its use. You also mentioned her personal admiration for "One Piece."

Meanwhile, the Hualien County government's Tourism Department announced that its "Hualien Fun Summer" event, scheduled for July 11th at Liyu Lake, has obtained official authorization from the "One Piece" IP holder. The event will feature a Thousand Sunny-themed balloon. The department clarified that while they have secured official licensing for their event, any creative interpretations or AI applications beyond the scope of that authorization would need to be determined by the IP holder regarding potential infringement.

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Hualien Fun Summer event has obtained official authorization from the One Piece IP holder. The county government completely uses the IP in accordance with the authorization contract.