Netflix’s animated sensation KPop Demon Hunters premiered on June 20, 2025, captivating global audiences with its vibrant blend of K-pop culture, supernatural action, and heartfelt storytelling.
Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the Sony Pictures Animation film has earned a 94% “fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, trending on other social media platforms.
The movie, inspired by K-pop groups like BTS, BLACKPINK, and TWICE, follows the K-pop girl group Huntrix—Rumi (Arden Cho), Mira (May Hong), and Zoey (Ji-young Yoo)—who secretly battle demons while topping music charts.
The film’s premise centres on Huntrix’s dual lives as idols and demon slayers, using music to create “Honmoon,” a protective energy shield against soul-stealing demons led by the sinister Gwi-Ma (Byung-hun Lee).
Their biggest challenge arises when the rival boy band Saja Boys, led by Jinu (Ahn Hyo-seop), reveals itself as a demon faction. A romantic twist between Rumi and Jinu, dubbed a “K-drama-worthy” subplot, explores themes of identity and redemption, resonating with fans.
Fans praised the “fire soundtrack” and “Spider-Verse-esque visuals,” with TWICE’s Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung’s track “Takedown” stealing the show.
Critics have lauded the film’s anime-inspired animation, dynamic fight choreography, and emotional depth. Variety called it “catchier than the K-pop phenom,” noting its edge over Pixar’s Elio, released the same day.
The New York Times highlighted its “charming, artfully punchy universe,” drawing comparisons to the Spider-Verse franchise. Fans celebrated its cultural authenticity, with Kang revealing to Forbes that Jinu’s character drew inspiration from Cha Eun-woo.
The film’s emotional climax, where Rumi embraces her half-demon identity, has sparked sequel demands, with WeNeedKPopDemonHunters2 trending.
Sportskeeda reported fans mourning the “heartbreaking” Rumi-Jinu finale, urging a spinoff. The soundtrack, featuring artists like EJAE and Rei Ami, is climbing streaming charts, with “How It’s Done” by Huntrix gaining viral traction.
KPop Demon Hunters is now streaming on Netflix, captivating K-pop fans and anime enthusiasts alike.
