Move over, Blackpink and NewJeans—there’s a new K-pop phenomenon in town, and it’s not even real. Netflix’s animated film KPop Demon Hunters has exploded into a full-blown cultural juggernaut, catapulting its fictional girl group HUNTR/X to the top of global music charts and into the hearts of fans worldwide.
From Animation to Chart Domination
When
KPop Demon Hunters premiered on Netflix this August, few could have predicted the scale of its impact. The film, which follows a K-pop girl group who moonlight as demon hunters, quickly became the streamer’s most-watched film ever, racking up over 210 million views and sparking a frenzy that’s still growing.
But the real surprise? The soundtrack. Led by the infectious single
“Golden,” performed by Korean American artists EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami as HUNTR/X, the music leapt from the screen to the top of the charts. “Golden” has now spent nine nonconsecutive weeks at No. 1 on the British Official Singles Chart, dethroning even Taylor Swift. In the U.S., it’s dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for over eight weeks, with three other tracks from the film also cracking the Top 10.
The Unlikely Rise of HUNTR/X
Unlike traditional K-pop groups, whose members train together for years, HUNTR/X’s vocalists were already established solo artists and songwriters before being “thrown together” for the film. In fact, they didn’t even meet in person until the movie’s premiere, recording their parts separately under the guidance of executive music director Ian Eisendrath.
This unconventional origin story only adds to their mystique. As Ejae, one of the group’s members, put it:
“We were all individually our own person… Having this synergy is incredibly rare.” The group’s chemistry, however, is undeniable—both on screen and in the studio.
A Love Letter to Korean Culture (and Supernatural Mayhem)
At its core, KPop Demon Hunters is more than just catchy tunes and dazzling animation. Co-director Maggie Kang, a Korean Canadian filmmaker, infused the film with authentic Korean cultural details, from the food on the table to the supernatural folklore that drives the plot. The story’s demons—jeoseung saja, grim reapers from Korean mythology—are both terrifying and oddly endearing, giving the film a unique blend of comedy, action, and horror.
Even South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung has publicly declared his love for the film, especially the adorable demon character Derpy, further cementing its status as a national (and international) obsession.
Beyond the Screen: Toys, TV, and Live Performances
The
KPop Demon Hunters phenomenon isn’t stopping at streaming. Netflix has announced major toy partnerships with Mattel and Hasbro, promising a wave of HUNTR/X dolls and demon action figures just in time for the holidays. The group has also made high-profile appearances on
Saturday Night Live and
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, blurring the line between fiction and reality.
Fans can even experience the magic live, with sing-along screenings and rumors swirling about a possible concert tour featuring the film’s stars.
What’s Next for KPop Demon Hunters?
With its soundtrack going platinum, Oscar buzz for “Golden,” and a growing global fanbase,
KPop Demon Hunters has redefined what’s possible for animated films—and for K-pop itself. The film’s blend of authentic culture, supernatural thrills, and irresistible music has struck a chord that shows no sign of fading.
If you haven’t watched (or listened) yet, now’s the time to join the hunt.
Sources
1. Inside the 'wild and weird' rise of 'KPop Demon Hunters ...
2. How KPop Demon Hunters Conquered the World
3. 'Golden' from 'Kpop Demon Hunters' rebounds to No. 1 in Britain
4. Press Release Details - Netflix
5. Gemes! Presiden Korea Selatan Kepincut Derpy dari K ...
