If you're into Japanese pop culture, the name "Enako" probably rings a bell. This massively popular cosplayer has been absolutely dominating the scene in recent years, even dropping albums and running a successful YouTube channel, solidifying her status as Japan's most successful cosplayer.
However, as the undisputed queen of cosplay, Enako recently faced some online heat, with accusations like "monetizing copyrighted cosplay" and "making hundreds of millions from fan creations" circulating. Enako herself took to X to directly address these claims, sparking a huge discussion.
Enako's response specifically targeted claims that she "amassed vast wealth through secondary creations."
On the 25th, she quoted one of these posts and fired back directly: "The photobooks I release at Comiket are all original creations (meaning my own original works)." She also made it crystal clear: "All photobooks featuring copyrighted cosplay are officially published through publishing houses after obtaining proper authorization." She further emphasized that these publishers also receive a fair share of the profits.
▼ Enako's photobook sold at C107
She added, "When engaging in copyrighted cosplay for commercial purposes, such as on television, we always obtain permission from the original creators/copyright holders, and we primarily appear in original costumes." This means she isn't profiting from copyrighted cosplay without authorization.
She even went as far as to publicly break down her annual income, which roughly consists of:
50% from advertisements, commercials, and other commercial collaborations
30% from photobooks and merchandise
The remainder from TV appearances and other work
She also stressed that there's a crucial difference between "gaining recognition and subsequently income through fan creations" and "directly profiting from fan creations," urging everyone to understand this distinction.
Before Enako burst onto the scene, the public perception of cosplay was vastly different. What was once seen as a mere "hobby extension" has, thanks to her, been elevated to a cultural phenomenon where it can be a legitimate profession. Despite her immense success, Enako chose to personally address these online doubts and misconceptions, preventing them from spiraling further.
Her candid statements garnered massive support across social media, with comments like "True industry leader, she can confidently clarify things while carrying the whole scene" and "We'll always support Enako!" pouring in.