Has a China-based manga piracy website been shut down?
Synopsis
In a significant crackdown on copyright infringement, a major China-based manga piracy website has been forced to close after a criminal complaint was filed. This article explores the implications of this shutdown and the ongoing battle against piracy in the digital age.
Key Takeaways
Bato.to was a major player in manga piracy, with millions of monthly visits.
CODA's efforts led to the identification and shutdown of the site.
The operator was generating substantial illicit revenue.
Copyright piracy is worsening due to advancements in technology.
Ongoing efforts are essential to protect creators' rights.
New Delhi, Jan 30 (NationPress) A manga piracy website based in China has been compelled to cease operations following a criminal complaint lodged with Chinese authorities, as reported by various news outlets.
The Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA), Japan's anti-piracy coalition, collaborated with cyber security specialists to pinpoint the individual behind Bato.To.
This site is believed to rank among the largest manga piracy platforms globally, with illegally uploaded content encompassing Japanese manga, according to www3.nhk.or.jp.
CODA reported that the site boasted 60 different domains and was accessed approximately 350 million times monthly.
Recent reports indicate that Bato.to's operator has been released on bail and is anticipated to face formal charges. The operator was allegedly generating over $57,000 monthly from illicit advertising.
The coalition noted that the website “secured illegally uploaded manga for scanning and translating comic books. The platform reportedly featured content in about 50 languages. The challenge of copyright infringement is escalating as translation becomes more accessible due to the proliferation of artificial intelligence.
Goto Takero, the CODA Representative Director, stated that his organization will persist in addressing this issue, given the global appeal of Japanese manga.
CODA announced the arrest of an individual on November 19th, suspected of copyright infringement, who “has confessed to running” Bato.to and roughly 60 associated sites, including xbato.com and mangapark.io.
Bato.to emerged as one of the most recognized online venues for “scanalation.”
This practice involves scanning, editing with translated text, and disseminating manga, manhwa, and other comics within online communities, as per reports.
According to various sources, the 60 discontinued sites collectively recorded 350 million visits in May 2025 alone, with Bato.to garnering over 400,000 yuan (around $57,000) in advertising revenue during peak periods.
Point of View
I believe that the closure of this major manga piracy website is a crucial step in protecting the intellectual property rights of creators. It highlights the ongoing struggle against copyright infringement in the digital age and reinforces the need for robust enforcement measures. The global popularity of Japanese manga necessitates a vigilant approach to safeguarding these valuable cultural assets.
NationPress
9 Jul 2026
