A Short Treatise on the Virtual World and the Law
강준모 · 2012
Currently, virtual worlds based on online providers around the world are developing at a rapid pace. However, there has not been a whole lot of research done in the field of intellectual property law regarding the legal issues in these virtual worlds. This study focuses on the virtual world and the legal issues they create. The study examines the prevalence and the impact virtual worlds are having on society. Furthermore, although there is relevant criminal, property, and contract law regarding the virtual world, this study focuses on the intellectual property laws such as copyright and trademark law. More and more interaction between the real world and the virtual world has brought to attention the legal issues that face this new frontier. The reason why it is paramount to understand and examine the legal issues facing the virtual world is because of the ever increasing number of people spending their time in the MMORPGs. The possibilities and creativeness of the virtual worlds are increasing and infinite. As this computer savoir-faire generation enters society a new paradigm will be created for how and where we work and play. However, the manifestation of these virtual worlds has unexpectedly caught the present legal foundation unexpectedly. A more standardized and centralized guideline is required to fill the gaps between the real world and virtual world so the courts in the future will be able to address the mounting private litigation that appears to be rising on the horizon.