In November 2023, the Beijing Internet Court issued a historic ruling in China’s first case on the copyrightability of AI-generated pictures, LI v. LIU. This decision has sparked significant debate among legal experts, the AI industry, and the general public, as it sets a precedent for how courts may handle AI-generated works in intellectual property law.

See detailed analysis at: https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=7f4daa90-093c-44be-a344-4fbd8c6db773

The Case: AI-Generated Work at the Center of Copyright Dispute

The lawsuit was filed by Mr. LI (Plaintiff) against Ms. LIU (Defendant), a blogger on the Baijiahao platform. The plaintiff alleged that the defendant had infringed his copyrights in an AI-generated image, claiming violations of his:

✅ Right of authorship
✅ Right of dissemination via information networks

The Verdict: AI-Generated Image Declared Copyrightable

In a landmark decision, the Beijing Internet Court ruled that the AI-generated picture was a copyrightable work, as it involved human authorship. The court found the Defendant liable for copyright infringement, reinforcing the notion that AI-assisted creations can, under certain conditions, qualify for copyright protection.

Implications for AI and Copyright Law

This ruling raises crucial questions about:

✅ The role of human involvement in AI-generated works – To what extent does human input influence copyright protection?
✅ Global perspectives on AI and copyright – How does China’s approach compare with legal frameworks in other jurisdictions, such as the U.S. and EU?
✅ Legal certainty for AI developers and content creators – Will similar rulings encourage or restrict AI-generated content?

What’s Next for AI Copyright Cases?

As AI tools continue to evolve, intellectual property laws worldwide will need to adapt to clarify the ownership and protection of AI-generated works. This case marks a significant moment in China’s copyright law history, with potential ripple effects on global discussions surrounding AI and IP rights.

At Andrés Izquierdo & Lawyers, we specialize in AI and copyright law, helping businesses, creators, and policymakers navigate the evolving legal landscape.

For expert legal insights on AI, copyright, and intellectual property law, contact our IP & Technology Law team at info@andresizquierdo.com.