LG Twins have canceled the ceremonial first pitch event for the animated film "Demon Slayer: Mugen Train". This decision reflects public opinion deeming it inappropriate ahead of Liberation Day.

On the 7th, the LG Twins informed "Dispatch" via a phone call, stating, "The ceremonial first pitch featuring the main characters Tanjiro and Nezuko from 'Demon Slayer', scheduled for the 9th, has been canceled."

The team had previously announced that characters from "Demon Slayer" would throw the ceremonial first pitch during the game between the LG Twins and the Hanwha Eagles at Jamsil Baseball Stadium, with plans to set up an event zone at the third-base side and distribute fans.

However, criticism arose immediately after the announcement. Some fans commented on LG Twins' social media, saying, "Why is it appropriate to have a first pitch from a heavily Japanese-themed anime before Liberation Day?"

In response to the controversy, the organization quickly moved to manage the situation. A representative explained, "We recognized the audience's criticism and made a rapid cancellation decision after internal discussions."

According to the lineup released that day, the remaining ceremonial first pitch events will proceed as planned. Characters from the game "Crazy Arcade" will throw the first pitch and sit at bat on the 8th, while singer Jeon Somi will take her turn on the 10th.

The game on the 9th will be without a ceremonial pitcher. A representative stated, "Due to the tight schedule, a replacement pitcher has not yet been determined."

Meanwhile, "Demon Slayer" is based on a Japanese manga of the same name, which has recorded cumulative sales of 220 million copies. However, there has been right-wing controversy due to its setting in the Taisho era, a period of Japanese imperialism, and the fact that the main character Tanjiro's earrings resemble the Rising Sun flag.

<Photo provided by Animax Broadcasting Korea>