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K-Pop: Demon Hunters

K-Pop: Demon Hunters

Volume 66 · Spring 2026

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Volume 66 · Spring 2026

인쇄
Netflix, Sony Pictures
Netflix, Sony Pictures
Released on Netflix on June 20, 2025, K-Pop: Demon Hunters marks a historic milestone as the first major overseas animation to center on K-pop idols. This musical, fantasy comedy adventure beautifully blends the vibrant soul of Seoul—showcasing Namsan Tower and its iconic streets—with traditional Korean motifs like the Jeoseung Saja (Grim Reaper) and the mythical tiger.
Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the film was born from Kang’s original vision and brought to life through a screenplay by Kang, Appelhans, Hannah McMechan, and Danya Jimenez. The star-studded voice cast features Arden Cho, Ahn Hyo-seop, May Hong, Young Mazino, Yunjin Kim, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Jeong, and Lee Byung-hun. The story follows the fierce K-pop girl group HUNTR/X as they juggle their double lives as demon hunters, secretly clashing with the possessed members of their rival boy band, the Saja Boys.
The film was fueled by Maggie Kang’s desire to tell a story inspired by her Korean heritage, utilizing mythology, demonology, and K-pop aesthetics to create a visually singular experience. Its stunning cinematography—from the concert lighting to the music video sequences—draws inspiration from both Korean dramas and Japanese animation. Featuring a score by Marcelo Zarvos and a hit-filled soundtrack by various artists, the film’s cultural impact was cemented at the 2026 Academy Awards, where it triumphed with wins for both Best Picture and Best Original Score.