The Netflix animation 'K-Pop Demon Hunters,' based on K-pop, is attracting attention from viewers worldwide.
According to the global OTT ranking site FlixPatrol on the 23rd, K-Pop Demon Hunters reached the top spot in 26 countries in the Netflix global film institutional sector as of the 22nd, just two days after its release. Since its debut on the 20th, it has maintained its popularity by also ranking first on the 21st.
This work is an action fantasy animation that tells the story of K-pop superstars Lumi, Mira, and Joy carrying out a secret mission to protect the world from demons, in addition to their activities as a popular girl group. They fight against incidents that arise when they discover that a rookie boy group that appeared like a comet is actually a group of demons.
K-Pop Demon Hunters is produced by Sony Pictures Animation, known for films such as 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' and 'Hotel Transylvania,' with Korean-Canadian director Maggie Kang and director Chris Appelhans co-directing. Director Maggie Kang spent her childhood listening to first-generation K-pop idol music.
Attention is also drawn to the English and Korean dubbing. Actor Ahn Hyoseop is making his first English dubbing attempt, while Lee Byung-hun lent his voice to the character of the ancient demon king 'Gweema' in both versions. TWICE members Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung participated in the OST.
The idol groups featured in the film were inspired by real K-pop groups such as BTS, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, Stray Kids, Ateez, MONSTA X, BLACKPINK, and TWICE. The design of the character appearances is said to have been referenced from Korean actors such as Cha Eun-woo and Nam Joo-hyuk.
Elements such as Namsan Tower in Seoul, traditional tiled houses, and grim reapers add to the Korean sentiment. It is evaluated to be appealing not only to K-pop fans but also to audiences unfamiliar with Korean culture.
On the American film rating site Rotten Tomatoes, it recorded a freshness score of 94% and a popcorn score of 95%, receiving positive reviews. International media stated, 'A work where splendid animation, choreography, an intriguing worldview, and addictive music harmonize,' and 'An attractive content that can be enjoyed even by those who are not K-pop fans.'