Netflix and Sony have officially confirmed that a sequel to the animated hit "KPop Demon Hunters" is in development, with a projected release date in 2029. The announcement has sparked excitement among fans of the K-pop-inspired fantasy adventure, which became a global phenomenon after its release in June 2025.
"KPop Demon Hunters," produced by Sony Pictures Animation, tells the story of Huntr/x (also stylized as Huntrix), a fictional K-pop girl group comprised of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, who secretly battle demons threatening the world. The film blends elements of K-pop culture, Korean mythology, action, adventure, comedy, and fantasy. The original movie's success was unexpected, with Sony's CEO initially considering K-pop a niche genre.
The film follows the K-pop group Huntr/x, as they balance their music careers with their secret mission to eradicate soul-sucking demons. They strive to strengthen the Honmoon, a magical barrier created by singers to protect the world from demons. The group faces a challenge when a rival demon boy band, the Saja Boys, emerges to steal their fans and weaken the Honmoon.
The first film was directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, with a screenplay they co-wrote with Danya Jimenez and Hannah McMechan. The voice cast included Arden Cho, Ahn Hyo-seop, May Hong, Ji-young Yoo, Yunjin Kim, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Jeong, and Lee Byung-hun. While there has been no official announcement, Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans are expected to return as directors for the sequel.
"KPop Demon Hunters" became Netflix's most-watched movie of all time, reaching the global top 10 in 93 countries. Its popularity led to sold-out merchandise and special sing-along theatrical releases, which topped the box office. The movie's soundtrack, featuring original songs like "Golden," "Your Idol," and "Soda Pop," also achieved mainstream success, dominating the Billboard Hot 100 chart and potentially earning Grammy nominations.
The success of "KPop Demon Hunters" signifies a growing willingness among streamers and animation studios to invest in original intellectual property that blends Asian pop culture with Hollywood-scale production.
While plot details for the sequel remain under wraps, fans can anticipate a deeper exploration of the characters' pasts and the mythologies that define them. Director Maggie Kang had previously hinted at ideas for a sequel, stating that the first film didn't reveal the full backstory, leaving room for future exploration. She also teased the possible return of the character Jinu, sparking fan speculation. The sequel is expected to feature new musical sequences that blend K-pop choreography with cinematic action, supported by a fresh soundtrack.
The four-year gap between the first movie and the sequel is due to the time-consuming nature of animated film production. Sony Pictures Animation has other upcoming projects, including "Goat," "Buds," and "Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse," slated for release before "KPop Demon Hunters 2".
