Filipino K-pop fans are totally hooked on this wild Netflix animated film that blends music, fantasy, action, and comedy into one stylish, chaotic ride.
You’ve probably seen those memes on your feed: KZ Tandingan and TJ Monterde as demon-hunting pop stars in some alternate universe. Or your friends suddenly stanning a 400+ year-old demon named Jinu. Maybe you’ve heard someone humming to Soda Pop and Golden. Well, if you’re confused, chances are you haven’t watched Netflix’s new animated hit, K-Pop Demon Hunters.
It’s the latest release from Sony Pictures Animation, and it’s got Filipino fans (and K-pop stans everywhere) crying, laughing, singing, and making memes—all at once. And let’s not forget those absolute bangers that are now permanently stuck in everyone’s heads. From flashy visuals and emotional twists to high-energy dance-offs and pop ballads, this animated film is pure Gen Z gold—and it’s currently one of Netflix’s most-watched titles globally.
Here’s What You Need to Know About Netflix’s ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’
When the trailer first dropped, reactions were… mixed. The concept sounded a bit out there: K-pop stars who double as demon hunters? But once the movie premiered, those doubts disappeared faster than a limited-edition lightstick. What viewers got was a colorful, creative love letter to K-pop culture—with a twist of supernatural drama and a whole lot of heart.
Directed by Maggie Kang (in her directorial debut) and Chris Appelhans (Wish Dragon), K-Pop Demon Hunters is set in a parallel universe where K-pop idols aren’t just trendsetters—they are humanity’s last line of defense against soul-devouring demons.
At the story’s center is Huntrix, a powerful girl group of three K-pop idols. They secretly fight evil. Rumi (voiced by Arden Cho) is the no-nonsense leader with a heart of gold. Mira (May Hong) is the tough choreographer with a sharp tongue. Zoey (Ji-young Yoo) is the bubbly rapper who brings chaotic good energy to the group.
Unknown to their fans, these three are part of a long line of demon hunters. Their mission? To drop one last hit so powerful it seals the gate between the demon world and ours forever.
The Antagonist: Jinu and the Saja Boys
But of course, no story is complete without a worthy villain—or in this case, a charming, slightly tortured, dangerously good-looking demon who’s causing the internet so much chaos because of his rizz. Enter Jinu, played by Ahn Hyo-seop (yes, the heartthrob from Business Proposal), who’s teamed up with demon lord Gwi-ma to sabotage Huntrix by forming a rival boy band called the Saja Boys. Their goal? Steal Huntrix’s fans, weaken their spiritual power, and open the gate for Gwi-ma to take over. No big deal.
What started as a flashy battle for fan attention soon became much more complicated and emotional. Rumi and Jinu’s rivalry heats up in more ways than one. A seemingly one-sided showdown turns into a story of secret histories, emotional baggage, and unexpected connections. The plot leans into that classic K-drama mix: tension, heartbreak, and slow-burn romance. This gives you just enough angst and vulnerability to keep your heart invested. It’s the kind of romantic tension that makes you laugh, scream, and maybe tear up a little, especially with a ballad playing in the background.
Standing Ovation for the Music and Visuals
Of course, the music deserves its own standing ovation. Every track is a bop. The songs range from high-energy anthems that make you want to break into a dance number to melancholic love songs that make you stare out the window dramatically. Whether or not you’re into K-pop, the soundtrack is undeniably catchy. And if you’re not humming one of the choruses after the credits roll, did you even really watch it?
The film is visually stunning. Bright, neon-soaked concert stages contrast with traditional Korean elements like bathhouses, herbal medicine shops, and mythological creatures like dokkaebi (Korean goblins). This blend of fantasy and modern pop culture creates a fresh, immersive world. The mix of English and Korean dialogue adds authenticity, yet maintains accessibility.
Adding even more star power to the cast is none other than Squid Game’s Lee Byung-hun, who voices the terrifying yet theatrical Gwi-ma. And let’s not forget the appearance of Filipino pride: Broadway legend Lea Salonga lends her voice to Celine, a retired demon hunter and former K-pop star who now mentors the Huntrix girls. Her vocals, as expected, are perfection.
Is ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Worth Your Time?
So, is it worth watching? Without a doubt. K-Pop Demon Hunters is fun, fast-paced, emotionally layered, and just the right amount of chaotic. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it still manages to touch on themes like identity, friendship, and the pressure of living in the spotlight. It’s about fighting literal demons, sure—but also the personal demons that come with fame, love, and loss.
More than anything, the film shows how music brings people together. It does so even in the most unexpected ways. Are you a Huntrix loyalist? Or are you secretly rooting for the Saja Boys? One thing’s clear: this story has heart, soul, and enough rhythm. It will keep you dancing long after the credits roll.
