Last updated on October 29, 2025
No, it is not allowed. In Japan, using copyrighted music in TikTok videos without proper licensing—typically through JASRAC or an authorized platform agreement—constitutes copyright infringement under Japanese law.
The Beat Behind the Rule
Imagine you’re ready to post a TikTok masterpiece, synced perfectly to your favorite hit. Before you tap “upload,” here’s the reality: in Japan, music is more than a soundtrack—it’s intellectual property protected by law. The Japanese Copyright Act gives creators exclusive rights over reproduction, distribution, and public transmission. Every time you pair a song with your video, you’re entering a regulated space where permission matters.
Why JASRAC Matters
JASRAC—the Japanese Society for Rights of Authors, Composers and Publishers—acts as the guardian of musical rights. It manages millions of works and ensures royalties reach composers and publishers. If you want to use a song beyond personal listening, JASRAC is often the gatekeeper. Their licensing system covers live performances, streaming, and uploads. Skipping this step isn’t just a technicality—it’s a legal breach.
TikTok’s Shortcut—But With Limits
TikTok has negotiated licensing deals with JASRAC, which means its official music library is pre-cleared for personal, non-commercial use. If you choose tracks from TikTok’s built-in library, you’re safe. But here’s the catch: uploading your own audio—say, a CD rip or karaoke track—falls outside that safety net. These involve separate rights called “neighboring rights,” which JASRAC doesn’t automatically cover. TikTok’s stance is clear: unauthorized uploads violate its terms and can trigger takedowns, muted audio, or account suspension. For repeat offenders, TikTok may escalate actions, including permanent bans, to comply with Japanese law.
The Legal Backdrop
Japan’s Copyright Act enforces strict penalties for infringement. Civil claims can demand compensation, while criminal penalties include fines reaching millions of yen and imprisonment for up to ten years. The law protects both economic rights—ensuring creators earn royalties—and moral rights, safeguarding their reputation. Viral fame won’t shield you from liability; the law hits harder than any trending beat.
Cultural Context: Why So Strict?
Japan’s music industry thrives on respect for creators. Historically, strong copyright norms have preserved artistic integrity and sustained a robust creative economy. These rules aren’t just legal—they reflect cultural values that prioritize fairness and artistry. In short, compliance isn’t optional; it’s part of the ecosystem that keeps music alive.
Practical Implications for Creators
So what does this mean for TikTok users in Japan? Here’s the reality:
- Personal videos: Use TikTok’s official library. It’s licensed for non-commercial use.
- Commercial content: If you’re promoting a brand or monetizing your account, you need extra clearance—either through TikTok’s Commercial Music Library or direct agreements with rights holders.
- Custom audio: Avoid uploading tracks from CDs, karaoke systems, or unauthorized sources. These are high-risk and often lead to takedowns.
- Consequences: TikTok actively monitors compliance. Violations can result in muted videos, removal, or account suspension. In severe cases, rights holders may pursue legal action.
TikTok’s proactive stance reflects its commitment to legal compliance and creator safety. By enforcing these rules, the platform protects users from costly mistakes while honoring Japan’s copyright framework.
Real-World Cases: When Things Went Wrong
The implications aren’t theoretical—they’ve played out in court. In 2024, Sony Music sued a TikTok creator, Trefuego, for using a sample from Japanese composer Toshifumi Hinata’s 1986 track Reflections without permission. The song had gone viral, featured in over 155,000 TikTok videos and streamed 100 million times on Spotify. The court ruled in favor of Sony, ordering Trefuego to pay more than USD 802,000 in damages, plus ongoing royalties and legal fees. The judge called it a “lesson in carefully selecting materials” for social media content. This case underscores that even global platforms and viral trends don’t override copyright law.
See more on JAPAN
Sources
Music Users – JASRAC
https://www.jasrac.or.jp/en/users/
Ongoing
Music Terms of Service – TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/legal/page/global/music-terms-eea-archive/en
August 2023
Sony awarded more than $800k over TikTok copyright infringement
https://www.nme.com/news/music/sony-awarded-more-than-800k-over-tiktok-copyright-infringement-3749902
April 23, 2024