McDonalds Japan recognizes flaws in video production with Touhou characters

McDonald’s Japão announced this Thursday that it identified insufficient processes in the production of some videos published on its social networks to promote Donut Quente Crème Brûlée. The fast-food chain issued a formal apology to the creator known as Kitsune (Kari), responsible for the derivative material called Kitsune Yukkuri. The statement highlights that parts of the derived content remained in the final material without adequate authorization.

The company clarified that the video in question, titled “Reimu, Marisa and Árvore of Mochi”, was released on February 18 on official platforms. The piece combined the characters Reimu Hakurei and Marisa Kirisame, from Projeto Touhou, with elements from the children’s work “A Although Embora initially generated a lot of positive feedback, users on social media noticed striking similarities between the character designs and the work of the independent creator.

Kitsune (Kari) expressed surprise upon seeing the material and reinforced that she had no direct involvement in the production. Ela published updates on the case, stating that it received an internal investigation report from McDonald’s Japão. The document highlighted specific flaws in the production flow, including the retention of elements of its original materials in the final video and issues related to the expression of the content.

Questioned production processes

McDonald’s Japão detailed that the internal analysis revealed points where appropriate procedures were not followed sufficiently. Isso included verification of rights and origins of visual elements incorporated into the promotional video.

The network confirmed that the content was removed from the platforms in mid-March, after the first public demonstrations. The measure aimed to contain the spread while the investigation progressed internally.

Amicable resolution between the parties

Kitsune (Kari) reported that she contacted the company directly and considered the response received as appropriate for the case. Segundo her, the matter was resolved satisfactorily upon receipt of the report and formal apology.

The creator highlighted that the outcome met expectations, without indicating intentions for additional measures. The episode reinforces the importance of rigorous checks in productions that mix popular cultural references with promotional elements.

Promo video details removed

The material presented a parodic narrative that integrated the iconic characters from the Touhou universe in a context related to the brand’s new donut. The animations sought to attract young audiences and fans of games and anime, a relevant segment in the Japanese market.

Initial reactions on social networks mixed praise for the campaign’s creativity with questions about the originality of the designs. The unusual combination between Touhou and classic children’s literature drew attention due to its visual appeal.

Repercussions in online communities

Discussions on forums and profiles specializing in Japanese pop culture pointed out clear visual parallels between the video and the characteristic style of Kitsune (Kari)’s work. Muitos users shared screenshots to illustrate their observations.

Leia Tambem

Colby Minifie confirms Ashley Barrett’s powers in The Boys season five

Napoli x Milan in Serie A with confirmed lineups and where to watch live

New battery test puts Galaxy S26 Ultra ahead of iPhone 17 Pro Max in global ranking

The creator maintained transparent communication during the process, updating followers on each stage of the dialogue with the company. Essa stance contributed to the case being followed up constructively by the community.

Importance of verifications in collaborations

Cases like this highlight the challenges faced by big brands when developing content inspired by consolidated creative universes. McDonald’s Japão internally reinforced the need to reinforce approval protocols to avoid repetitions.

The company remains committed to campaigns that engage with the local public, maintaining the focus on seasonal products such as Donut Quente Crème Brûlée. Public retraction demonstrates attention to the feedback received.

Updates about the promoted product

The donut in question continues to be available in the chain’s restaurants at Japão, with an emphasis on its distinctive texture and flavor. The main campaign for the item remains active through other channels, unrelated to the removed video.

Consumers who follow the brand’s launches can find the product in physical units and orders via the official app. The network did not announce any changes to the planning of future promotional activities.

• Rigorous verification of visual origins in digital productions.
• Direct dialogue with independent creators involved in controversies.
• Quick removal of questioned content to preserve image.
• Maintaining transparency in official communications.

The episode serves as a reference for production practices in agencies and marketing teams that deal with references to protected or derivative works. McDonald’s Japão continues to monitor general feedback on its seasonal initiatives.

Final brand positioning

The company reiterated its commitment to high standards of quality and respect in all creative stages. The apology was specifically directed to the affected creator, with no mention of other parties.

Internal teams received additional guidance to strengthen controls applied to future productions. The focus remains on delivering positive customer experiences through products and communications.

Kitsune (Kari) expressed satisfaction with the closure of the case and continued her creative activities normally. The dialogue between the brand and the independent creator illustrates possible ways to resolve similar issues in the sector.