Thailand and South Korea Enhance Copyright Collaboration Amid AI and Piracy Challenges

Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) recently conducted bilateral discussions with four prominent South Korean organisations specializing in copyright policy, protection, and rights management. This initiative is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to enhance cooperation, improve copyright enforcement, and create additional income opportunities for Thai creators.

The South Korean partners involved in these talks included the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST), the Korea Copyright Commission (KCC), the Korea Copyright Protection Agency, and the Korea Music Copyright Association.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the DIP, highlighted that the dialogue with the MCST concentrated on policies supporting the creative industries. A key focus was how legal frameworks can effectively balance the promotion of artificial intelligence (AI) innovation with the protection of creators’ rights.

The two sides also exchanged insights on intellectual property financing, particularly the potential to use copyrighted works as collateral for bank loans. Despite interest, challenges remain regarding confidence in asset valuations and the risks associated with auctioning such assets if borrowers default.

South Korean representatives shared their experience with alternative fundraising models, including fractional investment in music royalties. The DIP is considering studying these approaches to broaden access to finance and enhance the economic value derived from intellectual property for Thai creators and businesses.

On AI-related copyright matters, the DIP engaged with the Korea Copyright Commission, led by chairman Seogweon Kang, to discuss policies that balance AI developers’ need to access data for model training with the rights of copyright owners whose works may be used.

Thailand has already implemented requirements for disclosing AI use in copyright notification forms. Meanwhile, South Korea is examining the appropriate treatment of fair use and text and data mining. It is consulting stakeholders on how to ensure transparency in these practices without undermining the legitimate rights of copyright holders.

These discussions reflect a shared commitment by Thailand and South Korea to address the evolving challenges posed by AI and piracy while fostering a robust environment for creative industries.

The cooperation also aligns with broader regional and global efforts to adapt intellectual property frameworks to technological advancements and emerging economic models.

This bilateral engagement underscores the importance of international collaboration in intellectual property policy, especially as AI technologies increasingly intersect with copyright law.

The DIP’s proactive approach in learning from South Korea’s experiences demonstrates Thailand’s dedication to protecting creators and promoting sustainable growth in its creative sectors.

The ongoing dialogue is expected to inform future policy developments and potentially lead to innovative financing mechanisms that support creators’ economic interests.

Both countries continue to monitor the impact of AI on copyright and explore balanced regulatory responses that encourage innovation while respecting intellectual property rights.