Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters phenomenon is only just beginning

KPop Demon Hunters has become Netflix's most-streamed animated film in its history, and fans are clamouring for more.
(L-R) Zoey (voice by JI-YOUNG YOO), Rumi (voice by ARDEN CHO) and Mira (voice by MAY HONG) in KPop Demon Hunters
(L-R) Zoey (voice by JI-YOUNG YOO), Rumi (voice by ARDEN CHO) and Mira (voice by MAY HONG) in KPop Demon Hunters | Netflix

This summer has been filled with one exciting project after the next, both in cinemas and on streaming. From prequels, sequels, spin-offs, and everything in between, people have plenty of options to fill their time with unaccountable content. However, there was one film in particular that completely took over that no one saw coming, not even Netflix, and that is the animated phenomenon, KPop Demon Hunters.

On Monday, June 20, KPop Demon Hunters took the world by storm when it introduced us to Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, also known as the K-pop girl group Huntrix, who also fight undercover demons in their spare time. While battling demons and their overlord Gwima, the girls also use their singing voices and their connection to their fans to protect the world and the Honmoon, which is the barrier that protects our planet from being overrun with Gwima's minions.

As Rumi deals with her secrets, and the girls face their biggest new threat, aka, a rival boy band named The Soja Boys, who are actual demons in disguise, they must come together to protect the Honmoon and their friendship, all while trying to save the world one song at a time.

After barely a month after its release, KPop Demon Hunters has become Netflix's most-streamed animated film in its history, and fans are clamouring for more. The movie's soundtrack has also broken several records, with singles such as "Golden", "How It's Done," "What It Sounds Like," "Soda Pop," and "Your Idol," overtaking Billboard's Hot 100 chart since its release back in June.

With a 97% positive critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, a 92% score on the Popcornmeter, and an overwhelmingly overall positive response, the creative team behind the film and music is now working on expanding the Huntrix universe. In an exclusive interview with ScreenRant, film directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans revealed the following when asked about potential sequels: "There are always side stories, and there are things we've thought of while making this one. There are a lot of questions that are answered, but not fully. I think there are a lot of pockets that we can explore."


With so much potential surrounding the Huntrix world, it's no wonder multiple ideas are floating around regarding what the sequels could be about. Whether they could be based on following the OG trio's storylines, their ancestors, perhaps a potential comeback about certain characters, or even international similar pop groups around the world defeating demons while protecting a universal Honmoon, the limits don't exist.

While Netflix's solid plans haven't been revealed yet, there are rumours that, besides a potential trilogy, there could also be a stage adaptation. Even a rumour regarding a possible live-action film has also made its way around. Still, without Netflix's final word regarding their Huntrix plans, it's only safe to assume that no matter what happens, we will see more content within this universe in the future. Hopefully, in the near future, though, as Teen Vogue states, due to the tricky production timelines of animated films, we would have to wait at least until a 2027 potential release.

I, for one, can't recommend this film enough. Suppose you're looking for a non-stop action animated film with well-rounded characters, surprisingly catchy songs, plot twists, stunning animation, and kick-ass women leading protagonists. In that case, this is the film for you.

Also, the film's international social impact can't be denied, as its characters, songs, and catchphrases have inundated social media all summer, resonating with millions worldwide. While the Honmoon has been sealed for now, new material can't come soon enough.