For the first time in history, Japan achieved a significant milestone by leading the successful prosecution of an overseas anime piracy site.
The Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA) declared on March 4, 2024, that the operators of the notorious Chinese site “B9GOOD” were convicted of copyright infringement.
A staggering total of 45,880 anime were illicitly posted on B9GOOD, making it the largest anime pirate site targeted at Japanese viewers.
New Egghead Island poster (Credits: Toei Animation)
Over the last two years before its shutdown, the site recorded over 300 million accesses, with 95% originating from Japan, emphasizing its massive impact on the Japanese anime market.
The main operator, known as “A,” faced legal consequences, receiving a three-year prison sentence, suspended for 3.5 years, and a fine of 1.8 million yuan (US$250 thousand).
This amount almost equaled the revenue generated from site advertising. Furthermore, his residence, valued at $550k and funded through the site, was seized. “A” was convicted in December 2023, and after the appeals window passed, his sentence was finalized.
Tsunade, Kakashi, Yamato (Credits: Pierrot)
The CODA initiated investigations in 2021, identifying the operators and sharing information with the CODA Beijing office.
This collaboration resulted in the filing of criminal charges in China, leading to the successful prosecution. Notably, this marks the first instance of penalties imposed on anime piracy site operators through Japanese efforts.
Naruto Uzumaki (Credits: Pierrot)
In addition to “A’s” prosecution, accomplices were also held accountable. “B,” a female who received compensation from “A” for uploading anime, received a one-year suspended sentence.
“C,” a male, avoided prison due to China’s criminal law, while “D,” a woman who paid for uploading pirated anime, received an eight-month suspended sentence.
Eren in Founding Titan V/S Naruto Baryon Form (Credits: Mappa & Pierrot)
“A’s” relatively lenient sentence was attributed to being a first-time offender who voluntarily confessed and showed remorse.
The B9GOOD case is significant due to its similarities with Aniwatch, the world’s largest anime piracy site.
Both sites evaded shutdowns by frequently changing domains, and CODA’s press release concludes with a stern warning to pirate sites worldwide, asserting their commitment to eliminating unauthorized use of Japanese content.
“One Piece” is a beloved Japanese manga and anime series that chronicles the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew. Luffy, imbued with rubber powers from a mystical fruit Hito Hito no Mi, aspires to become the Pirate King. To achieve this, he seeks the ultimate treasure, the “One Piece,” hidden at the Grand Line’s end. Along the journey, Luffy gathers a diverse crew, confronts formidable foes, and uncovers world-altering secrets, all while promoting themes of friendship, freedom, and adventure.
Solo Leveling, a standout in the Winter Anime Season 2024, continues to captivate viewers with its unique charm. Each episode offers a distinct journey, maintaining a satisfying pace throughout.
Notably, the incorporation of anime-exclusive moments, possibly influenced by the director’s vision, adds depth to the narrative. These scenes, predominantly featuring Cha Haein, cater to fans’ desires.
A Still From Solo Leveling anime (Credits: Crunchyroll)
However, the inclusion of fan service prompts reflection on its necessity within the series.
While not overwhelming, it raises questions about its relevance compared to action-driven content. The debate over whether such additions enhance or detract from the overall experience remains ongoing.
The Role of Fan Service in Solo Leveling’s Anime Adaptation
In the debut episode of Solo Leveling, Sung Jinwoo faced a dungeon challenge beyond its rated difficulty. Meanwhile, turmoil brewed in the city streets, where two thieves seized a girl’s purse without intervention.
A Still From Solo Leveling anime (Credits: Crunchyroll)
Unexpectedly, a heroine intervened, swiftly reclaiming the stolen goods and thwarting the criminals, marking the series’ inaugural anime-exclusive fan service moment.
In episode 5, Sung Jinwoo’s training regimen progressed as he honed his physique, necessitating his departure from the hospital.
While engaged in his routine push-ups, a nurse stumbled upon him, her cheeks tinted with a blush upon witnessing his muscular development.
A Still From Solo Leveling anime (Credits: Crunchyroll)
In a subsequent encounter, a nurse informed Sung Jinwoo of his impending hospital discharge. As he donned his shirt, she unexpectedly requested his cell number, prompting his confusion over her intentions.
In episode 8, following Sung Jinwoo and Yoo Jinho’s agreement to establish their own guild, the focus shifts to Cha Haein’s track session, her appearance serving as another instance of fan service. After completing her laps, she is joined by guild members.
A Still From Solo Leveling anime (Credits: Crunchyroll)
These anime-original fan service scenes may stem from the series director, Shunsuke Nakashige, known for his involvement in ‘ecchi’ anime projects like Mother of the Goddess’ Dormitory, High School DxD, To Love Ru Darkness, and Keijo!!!!!!!
But do these scenes truly complement the series? While Solo Leveling primarily revolves around action-packed sequences and intense character moments, such diversions provide viewers with a change of pace.
A Still From Solo Leveling anime (Credits: Crunchyroll)
Hence, the fan service in Solo Leveling could be deemed essential, given its moderate nature, distinct from the exaggerated content typical of pure ecchi anime. Such additions don’t risk the series’ rating or reputation but rather offer a playful enhancement to the overall experience.
