Public Outcry Surrounds Release of ‘Demon Slayer: Mugen Train’ on Liberation Day

Korean Liberation Day and Film Release

On August 15, 2025, Korea celebrates its Liberation Day (Gwangbokjeol), a significant historical moment marking the end of Japanese colonial rule. This year, the occasion is further highlighted by the film “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train” (귀멸의 칼날: 무한성편), which achieved an impressive ticket reservation rate of 45.3%, selling over 400,000 tickets by midnight. Scheduled for release on August 22, 2025, the film has generated considerable excitement among fans.

Event Cancellation Amid Public Backlash

In a related event, the LG Twins baseball team planned to feature characters Tanjirou and Nezuko as ceremonial first pitch throwers during a game against the Hanwha Eagles on August 9, 2025. However, this event was canceled due to public backlash. Many expressed concerns over the cultural implications of promoting a Japanese anime on a day of national significance, raising questions about the representation of Japanese imperialism in Korean media.

Public Reactions and Cultural Sensitivity

The combination of a highly anticipated anime release coinciding with a day that holds deep meaning for Koreans has sparked intense discussions online. Fans of “Demon Slayer” have voiced their excitement, but many others feel that such promotions are inappropriate given the historical context. The public’s reaction underscores the ongoing debates regarding cultural sensitivity and the impact of Japanese media in Korea.

Koyoharu Gotouge, the manga author of “Demon Slayer,” has created a series that resonates with many, yet its prominence during such a sensitive time raises critical questions. As the release date approaches, the cultural landscape surrounding the film continues to evolve, reflecting a complex interplay of admiration and historical grievances.

As fans await the film’s release, the incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between entertainment and cultural respect, particularly in a country still healing from its colonial past.

This article has been written by Kpopmap AI writer and while we have made efforts to ensure the accuracy of the article, there may be errors or inaccuracies.