5 Must-Know Facts About KPop Demon Hunters, the K-Pop Inspired Animated Film

If you're a fan of K-Pop and animation, chances are KPop Demon Hunters is already on your radar. Premiering globally on Friday, June 20, 2025, this eye-catching animated feature immediately made waves with its bold concept — blending the glamorous world of K-Pop with thrilling demon-slaying action.

With vibrant visuals, a compelling storyline, and a K-Pop-infused soundtrack, KPop Demon Hunters offers a unique experience that stands out in the animation world. From its star-studded voice cast to real K-Pop idols featured on the soundtrack, here are 5 exciting facts you need to know about this buzzworthy film.

1. Directed by Creative Duo Maggie Kang & Chris Appelhans

The film is helmed by two visionary directors: Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans. The idea was initially sparked by Maggie, who wanted to create a superhero story rooted in Korean culture, with a strong female lead. Her love for K-Pop inspired the film’s main concept.

Chris Appelhans, known for directing Wish Dragon, joined the project soon after hearing Maggie's pitch. He was instantly drawn to the idea, recognizing its originality and potential.

“When Maggie told me her initial idea, I was like, ‘Oh no, no more rest for me. We have to do this.’ We had the same taste and ambition, and it was clear from our very first conversation,” Appelhans told Animation Magazine.

2. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation

KPop Demon Hunters is backed by Sony Pictures Animation, the studio behind acclaimed titles like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and The Sea Beast.

Josh Beveridge, Sony’s Head of Character Animation, was intrigued by the concept. Though it sounded unusual at first, the idea piqued his curiosity. As a veteran animator, he saw this project as a golden opportunity to create something visually groundbreaking, fun, and full of flair.

3. A Star-Studded Voice Cast

One of the film’s biggest strengths is its impressive voice cast featuring prominent names from both Western and Asian entertainment:

Arden Cho as Rumi
May Hong as Mira
Ji-Young Yoo as Zoey
Ahn Hyo Seop (in his English voice acting debut) as Jinu
Lee Byung Hun, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Jeong, Yunjin Kim, Joel Kim Booster, and Liza Koshy

This powerhouse lineup brings the characters to life with depth, charisma, and emotional nuance, elevating the overall viewing experience.

4. K-Pop Idols Feature on the Official Soundtrack

True to its K-Pop roots, KPop Demon Hunters features a dynamic original soundtrack (OST) performed by real K-Pop idols and artists. Notably, several members of girl group TWICE contributed to the music.

Here’s a breakdown of some tracks featured in the film:

“Takedown” – Jeongyeon, Jihyo, Chaeyoung (TWICE)
“Strategy” – TWICE
“How It's Done”, “Golden”, “What It Sounds Like” – HUNTR/X, Ejae, AUDREY NUNA, REI AMI
“Free” – RUMI, Jinu, Ejae, Andrew Choi
“Soda Pop”, “Your Idol” – Saja Boys, Andrew Choi, Neckwav, KEVIN WOO, samUIL Lee
“Love, Maybe (사랑인가 봐)” – MeloMance
“Path (오솔길)” – Jokers
“Love Me Right” – EXO
“Score Suite” – Marcelo Zarvos

These tracks enhance the film’s tone and energy, making it a musical treat for fans of all ages.

5. Characters Inspired by K-Pop & Korean Media

Character design and visual aesthetics in KPop Demon Hunters were deeply inspired by Korean pop culture. Directors Kang and Appelhans researched everything from music videos, editorial photography, and K-dramas to concert lighting and anime, aiming to create an authentic, stylish universe.

Notable inspirations include:

The Saja Boys: Modeled after top-tier boy groups like BTS, TXT, BIGBANG, Stray Kids, ATEEZ, and Monsta X
Jinu: Inspired by K-Drama heartthrobs Cha Eun Woo and Nam Joo Hyuk
Huntrix: A fierce girl group modeled after BLACKPINK, ITZY, and TWICE

The attention to cultural detail makes the world of KPop Demon Hunters feel vivid and immersive — a true love letter to modern Korean entertainment.

A Global Hit on Day One

Just one day after its release, KPop Demon Hunters skyrocketed to #1 on Netflix's global daily chart, according to data from Flix Patrol. This rapid rise highlights the film's wide appeal and the growing global appetite for K-Pop-infused content.

KPop Demon Hunters isn’t just an animated film — it’s a vibrant fusion of K-Pop, fantasy, music, and cultural storytelling. With stunning visuals, an electrifying soundtrack, and a powerful female-led narrative, this movie is a must-watch for fans of animation and Korean pop culture alike.

So, have you watched KPop Demon Hunters yet? If not, it’s time to join the hunt.