Review: KPop Demon Hunters - Is It Worth Watching?

KPop Demon Hunters is a North American animated musical fantasy film released on June 20, 2025, produced by Sony Pictures Animation and distributed by Netflix. It is directed and written by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans.

The cast features Arden Cho, May Hong, Ji-young Yoo, Ken Jeong, Lee Byung-hun, and Daniel Dae Kim.

The film’s original soundtrack was composed and produced by professionals from the K-Pop industry. Some original songs were performed by TWICE.

Rumi, Mira, and Zoey make up the K-Pop girl group Huntr/x, a team of demon hunters under the mentorship of Celine, a retired hunter who raised Rumi.

After completing their world tour, the group prepares for their first live performance of their new single, "Golden," until Rumi begins to lose her voice. She is secretly part demon, something only Celine knows. The rise of a new rival K-Pop group, mysteriously consisting of male demons, presents the trio with a daunting new challenge.

Trailer

K-Pop has evolved from a local musical phenomenon into a global force, becoming one of the entertainment industry’s most spectacular success stories of the 21st century. It is not just a music genre; it is a cultural movement encompassing music, dance, fashion, visual aesthetics, and unprecedented interaction between artists and fans.

Groups like Seo Taiji & The Boys, who debuted in 1992, were pioneers incorporating Western styles like hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music into Korean music. They not only revolutionized sound but also introduced intricate choreography and a refreshing visual approach.

By the late 1990s and early 2000s, the First Generation of K-Pop, with groups like H.O.T, Sechs Kies, S.E.S, and Fin.K.L, began gaining popularity across other Asian countries like Japan and China, marking the start of the Hallyu (Korean Wave) that also included TV dramas and films.

The Second Generation emerged in the 2000s, refining the formula for success. Groups like TVXQ, Super Junior, Girls' Generation, BIGBANG, and Wonder Girls (the first K-Pop group to make it onto the Billboard Hot 100 in the US) helped expand the genre's reach and influence.

The Third Generation (beginning in the early 2010s) ushered in an era of unprecedented global popularity with groups like EXO, BTS, TWICE, and BLACKPINK taking center stage.

The genre's globalization was propelled in 2012 with PSY’s viral hit, Gangnam Style. Although primarily a comedic solo track, the song demonstrated Korean music's global potential and helped break the barrier of Asian music in Western markets.

The movie is clearly teen-oriented, with some clichéd humor. Its concept will likely resonate more with younger viewers. I was intrigued to watch it because of its consistent success, remaining in the Top 10 since its release.

While the movie primarily targets K-Pop fans, it can still provide enjoyable entertainment for other audiences.

The animation is high-quality, blending a visual style that recalls anime and Asian comics with a modern touch. The idols’ costumes are intricately detailed, the dance sequences flow seamlessly, and the action-packed scenes are dynamic and rich with eye-catching visual effects.

The protagonists, Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, are more than just talented performers; they are strong and independent women who use their skills to protect the world. The film highlights themes of teamwork and friendship, illustrating how the trio supports one another and overcomes obstacles both on stage and in their battles against demons.

In short, if you’re looking for a sophisticated plot, this may not be the movie for you. However, if you’re in the mood for some fun, vibrant music (particularly if you are a K-Pop enthusiast), and dazzling visuals, it’s a great pick!

KPop Demon Hunters has earned widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences, solidifying its status as a Netflix success.

Rotten Tomatoes: 96% approval from 53 critic reviews and 91% approval from over 2,500 audience ratings.

IMDb: 7.8/10 based on 32,000 ratings.

Letterboxd: 3.7/5 stars from 567,000 ratings.

KPop Demon Hunters blends the energetic and colorful world of K-Pop with action-packed adventure and demon-hunting fantasy. This unique combination creates a one-of-a-kind experience where grand musical performances and elaborate choreography intersect with epic battles and supernatural elements.

It is perfect for a lighthearted and entertaining break, with moments of humor, exciting action sequences, and a captivating storyline. If you’re seeking something visually stunning, original, and easy to enjoy, this is an excellent choice.

See you next time!