AI Comic Generation and Copyright Infringement: Court Rules Unlawful Adaptation

WISECODE Take

Many creators mistakenly believe that converting text to AI comics evades liability; however, upgrading weapons does not alter the rules of engagement, and the legal test remains whether the final expression is substantially similar. Tianjin Heping Court recently ruled on an AI comic case under Opinion No. 10 [2026] issued on September 7, 2026, holding that unauthorized input of copyrighted novels into AI to generate audio-visual content infringes adaptation and online dissemination rights. This clarifies that AI is merely a tool, not a copyright safe harbor. Businesses scraping online novels face takedowns and damages, whereas original creators and authorized licensees remain unaffected. Zhidian provides copyright risk audit services to help verify clearance before release. We suggest: first, maintain written authorization records when using AI tools; second, establish pre-release screening to avoid using copyrighted plotlines directly as AI prompts. While generative tech cuts costs, a solid chain of title is what enables content assets to generate commercial value.