Netflix is officially expanding its most successful animated original to date. Following explosive global interest in KPop Demon Hunters, the streaming platform has greenlit two sequels. Well, it sets the stage for a full franchise built around its viral universe.
The movie is already being compared internally to Frozen for its cultural impact, streaming performance, and soundtrack success.
Within six weeks of release, the movie shattered records across streaming and music charts. The fictional bands, particularly HUNTR/X and Saja Boys, have seen real-world chart success. The groups are soaring on Apple Music, Spotify, and Billboard.
Two Sequels Greenlit as Netflix Builds Animated Franchise
Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, known for hits like Spider-Verse, KPop Demon Hunters combines K-pop, fantasy action, and vibrant animation. The film has become Netflix’s most-watched animated original, which hit peak viewership six weeks after release. In response, Netflix has fast-tracked two follow-up films, completing a planned trilogy.
According to a report by The Wrap, two sequels are in active development as part of a planned trilogy. While no release dates have been confirmed, the production pipeline is reportedly moving fast.
In addition to the sequels, the streamer is exploring a live-action remake and even a stage musical adaptation. However, not all fans are enthusiastic about the live-action idea, especially given the animated film’s unique aesthetic and stylized action.
Critics argue that much of the original’s magic lies in its bold, animated visuals, which may not easily translate to live action.
There’s also speculation around potential TV spin-offs and video game tie-ins, which suggests a broader transmedia strategy for the IP.
Soundtrack Dominates Charts as Fictional K-pop Groups Go Viral
The film’s impact goes beyond viewership. Its soundtrack, featuring in-universe idol groups HUNTR/X and SAJA Boys, has charted globally. HUNTR/X’s track Golden has entered the Top 2 on Billboard HOT 100, while SAJA Boys’ Your Idol is climbing the Apple Music and Spotify charts. Nine songs from the movie currently hold spots on the Billboard chart.
The music plays a central role in KPop Demon Hunters, which follows a group of K-pop idols (Zooey, Rumi, and Mira) who secretly fight demons through music. In a twist, the demons form their own rival K-pop group, turning the story into a supernatural battle of idols.
Global Viewership and Repeat Streaming Push Film Into Netflix History
KPop Demon Hunters is attracting repeat viewership rarely seen in animated films. Viewers are not only rewatching the movie but also replaying musical sequences like music videos, helping the film trend across social platforms.
According to Netflix, this film achieved record-breaking viewership growth in its sixth week, an unprecedented feat for an animated original on the platform. It has been especially popular among teen and young adult audiences, both in Korea and internationally.
Meanwhile, Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters is growing into a full franchise. Along with the animated film, a stage musical and a live-action version are now in the works. New original songs will also be released, following the strong global response and chart success of the project’s music.
