The Japanese illustration platform TEGAKI has officially gone live, quickly gaining traction among Japanese creators thanks to its unique “AI-exclusion” policy. On its very first day, the site attracted over 5,000 new users, leading to a temporary crash. The exact time for reopening has not been announced yet.

Created by independent engineer and artist Tochi, TEGAKI serves as a “safe haven” for artworks made solely by human hands. The platform strictly prohibits any images generated or assisted by AI, ensuring authenticity through a rigorous verification system. Additionally, TEGAKI has implemented several safeguards to prevent its content from being used for AI training purposes.

Tochi clarified that the goal behind launching TEGAKI is not to reject AI technology outright, but rather to offer a dedicated space and secure environment for those who value traditional, hand-drawn creative approaches.