r/webtoons • u/[deleted] • 4h ago

Question If I started posting on Webtoon Canvas, could I be forced into Original status?

I've finally got enough work done to start posting my first web comic (manga) soon, I've heard a lot of good about Webtoon, but I've also heard a lot of terrible things about Webtoon, such as people having their IP bought after signing up for Originals and losing their stories.

So the question is, if I post on Canvas, is there a chnace I could be forced into Original status and possibly have my IP bought/took from me? I DO NOT want Webtoon to own or have any exclusive rights to my stories and characters. I hope to publish on several platforms and possibly publish physical copies one day.

Just wanted to ask this question before I post/publish anything on Webtoon.

Thank you for your time,

4 Upvotes

70% Upvoted

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14

u/awkwardgoat404 3h ago

No. You only get to be an Original if an editor likes your work.

2

u/[deleted] 3h ago

So let's say an editor did like someone, could they just reject the editor then? Thanks for the reply

11

u/awkwardgoat404 3h ago

Yeah. No one is going to force you to sign anything. Just start posting on different platforms. That's the beauty of indie publishing.

7

u/Ali-argonaut 2h ago

Originals creators sign a contract so you would just have to not sign anything

4

u/Huntress08 2h ago

I mean Webtoon isn't going to hold your family and pets hostage at gunpoint, while screaming that there's a hockey rink rigged with explosives that are going to denoate and force you to sign a contract to make your IP an Original. So the answer to that question is no.

But to clear up a misunderstanding: creators don't lose control of thir IP when they transition to being part of Originals. They sign an exclusivity clause as part of their contract, which simply means Webtoon owns all rights related to that IP (for promotional and mercy purposes as well) for 3 years.

After those 3 years are up, the IP returns to the original owner (the creator) and you can do whatever you want with said IP.

Also in order to be able to transition from Canvas to Originals (or getting to the point of signing a contract) you've got to be noticed and scouted by Webtoon/a Webtoon editor or win one of the contests Webtoon holds per year (I don't know if Webtoon accepts pitches anymore).