“KPop Demon Hunters” has quickly become one of 2025’s biggest sensations. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation and released on Netflix on June 20, the film has received both commercial success and critical acclaim. Its popularity has raised the bar for the quality of animated films and, to an extent, musicals as well. The animation style is uniquely vibrant, blending 2D and 3D elements to create a visually gorgeous movie.
Due to its popularity, the movie could become a major influence in various ways. Many of its songs have gone viral, dominating the Billboard Hot 100 charts and trending across social media platforms like Instagram and X, formerly Twitter. “KPop Demon Hunters” currently holds the record for the most-viewed Netflix movie in history, surpassing the previous titleholder, Red Notice. Although originally a Netflix exclusive, the film’s success has led Sony to release sing-along versions both in theaters and on Netflix.
The plot centers around ancient demons who feed on human souls to empower their ruler, Gwi-Ma. Across generations, three women become demon hunters, using their voices to create a golden barrier, the Honmoon, to seal the demons away. In the present day, the demon hunters — Rumi, Zoey and Mira — form the famous K-pop idol group, HUNTR/X. In response, the demons create the Saja Boys, a K-pop idol group of demons, to try to harvest human souls, sparking a feud between the two groups and a race to determine the fate of humanity.
The movie is packed with twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat, with a storyline that proves everything is not so black and white. I really liked the main message of the movie — your past does not define who you become. This theme is especially evident in the interactions between Rumi and Jinu, which are deeply human and relatable, despite both being demons. Even if you are not into K-pop, the movie is worth watching for the characters alone.
The soundtrack is absolutely stellar. Each song fits seamlessly into the plot while also being fun to listen to. The songs produced for the movie are performed in-universe by HUNTR/X and the Saja Boys. The opening number, “How It's Done,” kicks off the film with a bang and instantly pulls you in.
“Golden” perfectly represents the overall personality of HUNTR/X and reinforces the movie’s main message. It’s even a strong contender for the essential song of the summer. “Soda Pop” is the first song we hear from Saja Boys. While it is not my favorite, it is still a fun, upbeat summer bop. “Takedown,” HUNTR/X’s diss track towards the Saja Boys, is cleverly used in an unexpected mid-film performance that gives the song a completely different meaning. “Free” is a nice and emotional ballad sung by Rumi and Jinu, members of opposing groups. “Your Idol” is a very stylish villain anthem that reveals the Saja Boys’ true nature and ability to entrance their audience. The final song, “What It Sounds Like,” is performed at the climax and marks the true peak of the film. Overall, the soundtrack is well worth a listen.
The success of “KPop Demon Hunters” cannot be overstated. The film has broken many records and may even represent a cultural turning point in our society. Despite its June release, the movie remains in the top five most-watched movies today. I definitely think this film deserves the praise it’s receiving, and I highly recommend seeing the film if you have the time.
I would rate this movie a 4.5/5.
