KPop Demon Hunters becomes the most-watched animated film on Netflix

The KPop animated film Demon Hunters has become the most-watched animated production in Netflix history since its premiere on June 20, 2025. The film, which has fan art and requests for a sequel from around the world, has generated an impact that transcends the screen.

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In the story, two fictional groups—the all-girl Huntr/x and the Saja Boys—have achieved real-life success in the music industry. Their songs dominate global charts, surpassing artists like BTS and Blackpink. The song "Golden" is number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and tops the Spotify charts in the United States, while another track is in third place. Huntr/x, made up of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, plays superstars who, offstage, protect their fans from supernatural threats. Their rivals are the Saja Boys. The production combines action, friendship, trust, and identity, with a message of self-discovery.

“The music was integrated into the narrative in a way that enhances it rather than distracts from it,” notes Lashai Ben Salmi, a community leader specializing in Korean culture in Europe. “It gives the film a surprising level of maturity.”

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Music as a narrative axis

Korean-Canadian co-director Maggie Kang was inspired by K-pop idols from her childhood. Music is the soul of the story, used as a supernatural weapon against dark forces. Each original theme accompanies key moments.

Aware of its importance, directors Kang and Chris Appelhans worked with renowned producers, such as Teddy Park (Blackpink) and Lindgren, Grammy winner for collaborations with BTS and TWICE.

“We wanted the music to be truly amazing, to connect with K-pop fans and fit fully into their world, so we felt it was important to partner with a Korean label,” Kang said.

Amanda Golka, a content creator in Los Angeles, says, “I’ve been blasting the soundtrack on Spotify every time I’m in a car. I’m always fascinated by the universal language of music, across different cultures.”

For Kim Youngdae, a music critic and ethnomusicologist, the film appeals even to those who don't follow K-pop. "For the past 20 or 30 years, K-pop has struggled to integrate naturally into mainstream pop culture... but animation is a very effective way to introduce unfamiliar cultures to mainstream platforms," he explains.

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Cultural representation and authenticity

The feature film reflects the growing global familiarity with Korean culture, which is evident in film, drama, and music. It depicts everyday elements such as cuisine, cityscapes, and monuments. Among the locations depicted are Seoul's historic walls, traditional medicine clinics (Hanuiwon), public baths, and Namsan Tower.

The crew traveled to South Korea to document clothing, architecture, and customs. “We went to traditional villages, observed the appearance of the bricks and the layout of the streets of Myeongdong. We tried to give the film as much Korean flavor as possible,” Kang said.

Although the final version is in English, the lip animation was adapted to Korean pronunciation, and Korean expressions and songs were included. The production portrays the world of fandom in detail, incorporating fan signings, lights, and Korean banners. Huntr/x and Saja Boys' synchronized dances—Kalgunmu—are presented with precision.

Kim notes, “K-pop fans often focus on individual groups, but this film encompasses K-pop culture as a whole.”

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It also fuses traditional elements such as swords and fans inspired by Mudang shamans, evil spirits represented like the Korean Grim Reaper, sacred trees (Dangsan), goblins (Dokkaebi), weapons with traditional designs, and settings featuring classical paintings. The mascots Derpy (tiger) and Sussy (magpie) symbolize guardianship and good fortune according to folklore.

Ejae, Golden's co-writer and performer, said the success "feels like a dream." "It's like I'm surfing for the first time and just got caught by a big wave," she said. She has gained nearly 100,000 Instagram followers in a month and has gone from working behind the scenes to the spotlight.

“I think we're in a moment where we need hope, and people want it,” he added. “This song is very hopeful; it just lifts your voice and is very powerful. Maybe that's what people need right now.”

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