Transparency in Technology: Japanese Web Novel Platform Requires AI Disclosure

Syosetsuka ni Narou Platform Mandates AI Usage Disclosure for Creative Works

The official platform for Syosetsuka ni Narou, known for fostering popular titles like “Re:Zero -Starting Life in Another World” and “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime,” has recently announced a significant policy change. Starting September 1, 2026, authors on the site will be required to disclose their use of artificial intelligence in creating their works.

As Japan’s largest web novel submission platform, Syosetsuka has been instrumental in the birth of over 200 anime adaptations. To celebrate its 22nd anniversary this year, the platform is taking proactive steps to ensure transparency in content creation by implementing this new mandatory AI disclosure rule.

According to an official statement released by Syosetsuka, the decision to enforce AI usage disclosure stems from the growing interest and integration of AI technology in creative processes. The platform believes that the lack of transparency regarding AI utilization in text creation could lead to misunderstandings and distrust among stakeholders, potentially causing complications during commercialization.

“In recent times, AI utilization in creative activities has garnered strong interest not only from authors and readers but also from all parties involved in content production, including publishers. In web novels, we believe that failing to disclose AI usage in the creation of work text carries a risk of causing misunderstandings or perceptual gaps between stakeholders, which could ultimately lead to mistrust in the works. Especially in commercialization, if AI usage remains unrecognized and proceeds without it, authors and companies alike may face unforeseen troubles.”

While authors are still allowed to use AI tools for content creation, Syosetsuka has introduced four new categories for AI usage classification: “Direct Use,” “Indirect/Intermediate Use,” “Auxiliary/Aiding Use,” and “Not Used.” Authors must accurately select the category that aligns with their AI utilization practices to avoid potential administrative interventions.

For existing works on the platform, authors are given a grace period to update their AI usage settings. However, after September 1, 2026, works without the mandatory disclosure setting will no longer be editable. Syosetsuka emphasizes the importance of providing clear information on AI involvement in creative works to both readers and potential anime production companies.

By setting the standard for AI disclosure in creative endeavors, Syosetsuka aims to promote transparency and trust in content creation. Whether AI is used for comprehensive novel generation or simply for grammar checks and research purposes, the platform advocates for openness and honesty in disclosing AI usage to maintain credibility and integrity in the creative process.