What is KPop Demon Hunters?
KPop Demon Hunters is a 2025 American animated musical fantasy film produced by Sony Pictures Animation and released globally by Netflix. Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the screenplay was co-written by the directors alongside Danya Jimenez and Hannah McMechan, based on a story originally conceived by Kang herself.
KPop Demon Hunters movie was motivated by Maggie Kang’s own ties to her Korean heritage, combining components of demonology, Korean mythology, and K-pop culture to create a vibrant, fantastical world. In March 2021, Sony Pictures Animation confirmed that the project was in production, as well the creative team.
The animation was created by Sony Pictures Imageworks, takes influence from Korean dramas, music videos, anime, concert lighting, and editorial fashion photography. Composer Marcelo Zarvos wrote the film’s soundtrack, that features original K-pop-inspired songs performed by in-universe artists.
Plot Overview: Idols by Day, Demon Slayers by Night
Zoey, Rumi, and Mira form the group Huntrix /KPop Demon Hunters
In a world where demons once fed on human souls, a magical barrier called the Honmoon keeps them sealed—maintained through generations by trios of singing warriors. Today, that legacy continues with HUNTR/X, a global K-pop girl group who double as secret demon hunters. In this alternate version of our world, the K-pop industry hides a dark secret — demons. The girl group at the center of the story uses their choreography, magical relics, and vocal powers not only to captivate audiences but also to battle ancient evils threatening humanity.
Jinu (leader), Abby, Mystery, Romance, and Baby from the Saja Boys/ KPop Demon Hunters
Led by Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, the group faces a new threat: the Saja Boys, a rival demon-formed boy band aiming to steal their fans and weaken the Honmoon. But Rumi hides a deeper secret—she’s part demon, a truth that threatens to destroy both her voice and her bond with the group.
As the battle intensifies and the barrier weakens, betrayals, secrets, and identity struggles push HUNTR/X to their limits. With the fate of humanity at stake, Rumi must embrace her true self to help her sisters defeat the demons, restore the Honmoon, and prove that unity is stronger than shame.
Why K-Pop and Demons?
The film aims to spotlight Korean mythology and modern pop culture, reflecting the global rise of K-pop and the fascination with supernatural storytelling. With hits like Blackpink, BTS, and NewJeans dominating global charts, this movie taps into a fanbase that’s already obsessed with fashion, fantasy, and fierce female empowerment.
Kpop Demon Hunters Release Date & Time
- Kpop Demon Hunters premiered exclusively on Netflix on June 20, 2025
- Netflix originals typically debut at 12:00 a.m. Pacific Time (PT)—the same moment worldwide—so viewers across the globe see it at their respective local time zones
- LocationLocal Time on June 20Los Angeles (PT)12:00 a.m.
- Mumbai, India (IST)12:30 p.m.
- London (BST)8:00 a.m.
- Seoul (KST)4:00 p.m.
Who’s Behind the Magic?
The film is being developed by an exciting creative team:
- Director: Maggie Kang (The Lego Ninjago Movie)
- Co-Director: Chris Appelhans (Wish Dragon)
- Producer: Aron Warner (Oscar-winning producer of Shrek)
The creators describe it as a genre-bending tribute to female friendship and the explosive global influence of K-pop music.
Why Fans Are Excited for KPop Demon Hunters
The buzz around K-Pop: Demon Hunters is growing for several reasons:
- It’s the first major animated film centered on K-pop.
- Strong female representation and cultural storytelling.
- Backed by an experienced animation team with a track record of hits.
- Appeals to fans of K-pop, anime, fantasy, and action.
Voice Cast
- Rumi (HUNTR/X leader)
Speaking Voice: Arden Cho - Mira (HUNTR/X member)
Speaking Voice: May Hong - Zoey (HUNTR/X member)
Speaking Voice: Ji‑young Yoo - Jinu (Saja Boys member)
Voice: Ahn Hyo‑seop - Mentor Celine: Yunjin Kim
- Demon King Gwi‑Ma: Lee Byung‑hun
- Healer Han: Daniel Dae Kim
- Manager (comic relief cameo): Ken Jeong
- Additional cameo voices include Liza Koshy and Joel Kim Booster
Soundtrack Tracklist
Here are the key songs featured on the official soundtrack, released June 20, 2025
- “Takedown” – performed in‑film by HUNTR/X (EJAE, Audrey Nuna, Rei Ami)
- “How It’s Done” – HUNTR/X opening fight number (EJAE, Audrey Nuna, Rei Ami)
- “Soda Pop” – debut track of the Saja Boys (Andrew Choi, NECKWAV, Danny Chung, Kevin Woo, samUIL Lee)
- “Golden” – HUNTR/X anthem (EJAE, Audrey Nuna, Rei Ami), later released as a single on July 4
- “Strategy” – TWICE solo version (originated in 2024, featured as soundtrack filler)
- “Your Idol” – villain track by the Saja Boys (same artist lineup)
- “Free” – duet between Rumi and Jinu voices (EJAE & Andrew Choi)
- “What It Sounds Like” – emotional climax track by HUNTR/X
- Additional interstitial and in-world tracks: Concert Intro, Hunter’s Mantra, Jinu’s Lament, Path by Jokers, Love, Maybe by MeloMance, Black Suit by SUPER JUNIOR, As The Night Goes On by Seotaiji & Boys
Highlights:
- Lead single “Takedown” features both an in-film version (HUNTR/X) and a real-world version by TWICE members Jeongyeon, Jihyo & Chaeyoung
- “Golden” became a global hit (#1 Billboard Global 200) and was written by Ejae and Mark Sonnenblick, produced by Teddy Park, 24, Ido & Ian Eisendrath
Reception & Cultural Impact
- The film garnered immense popularity—topping Netflix charts in over 90 countries, with early viewership reaching 80 million streams in 23 day.
- Its soundtrack debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200, a first for a Netflix animated film, and hit #1 on the soundtracks chart.
- Critics praised its animation style, music, storytelling, and cultural authenticity, including its affectionate representation of K-pop fandoms and lore.
