The remote requires host device intervention in order to trigger recording so unless you plan on enabling recording functionality the lg remote should be fine. Assuming you like the lg remote.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with using an ir receiver on your mini pc and your existing tv remote, especially if it has the device selection buttons at the top like “tv, dvd, etc”. In some ways that’s easier to understand and handle for an end user.

I have done Linux media pcs for the past 25 years. If you want a project you will indeed get a project. It is not fun. If you have a specific goal in mind for your Linux streaming box I can most likely offer experience and insight.