"K-pop Demon Hunters" Strikes a Chord

Emmersyn Hadley • October 28, 2025

The new movie “K-Pop Demon Hunters” has created a buzz in the film industry ever since its highly anticipated release on Aug. 23. In just a matter of weeks, the movie skyrocketed to over 314.2 million views, becoming Netflix’s most-watched movie of all time (Vanity Fair). This movie has been regarded as a moving work that both kids and parents can enjoy through its combination of action, storytelling and vibrant music performances. Its blend of adventure and pop idol characters has seized the minds of its audiences, especially its younger viewers.

It could be argued the movie is so popular among younger viewers thanks to its musical factors, with almost Disney-like songs and bright, colorful designs that naturally appeal to children. However, its success is not limited to love from younger audiences, as the movie and its original songs have surpassed records and dominated charts. The film’s achievements have been well-timed, following the rise of Korean Popular Music (K-pop), a South Korean music genre influenced by hip hop and R&B, has become such a major success and the music community’s growing influence in Western entertainment with over 150 million listeners worldwide. “K-Pop Demon Hunters” became a well-known and lively movie. Freshman Jacque Galang explained her motive for watching the film.

“I decided to watch this movie because I’ve been a K-pop fan for many years,” Galang said. “At first, I thought the movie would be cringy or too childish for me, but after seeing many edits on TikTok, I was convinced to watch it.”

“K-Pop Demon Hunters” is an action-packed adventure film that manages to blend fantasy and friendship all while maintaining an appeal to diverse audiences (The Medium). The film also features an infectious soundtrack, vibrant animations and fun performances from its main characters. The film follows three brave girls – Zoey, Mira and Rumi – and their K-pop band, Huntrix. While they sing and perform, the group also hunts demons that aim to feast on the souls of people. The narrative progresses as Huntrix finds out that their main competitors, a new boy band whose popularity threatens their own, are concealing a serious secret. Though at first appearing to simply be another group competing for recognition, the boy band has unknowingly been fighting dark forces: evil demons that consume the energy of Huntrix's fans. Upon learning this, Zoey, Mira and Rumi understand that this competition goes beyond mere musical rivalry. Because of this, they must unite with their former rivals to defend their fans and stop the demons.

Beyond the exciting action and musical numbers, the movie deals with themes that touch viewers of any age. One major storyline involves Rumi, who keeps a secret from everyone, even her friends. As things get more serious, she has to face this truth. Her path to being honest and accepting herself quietly impacts the film, adding depth to its spectacle. Her path through honesty and self-acceptance becomes the emotional substance of the movie. As Rumi hides her secret, the group's friendship is put under such pressure that it almost breaks apart. However, through honesty and teamwork, the trio is able to discover the best way to overcome their battles derives from the irreplaceable bond they share. Freshman Taeyon Kim felt that “K-Pop Demon Hunters” highlights the importance of truthfulness and openness through Rumi’s journey.

“The theme I noticed when watching ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ was the importance of friendship and honesty,” Kim said. “Rumi, the entire movie, keeps important secrets hidden from the people she claims to trust most. Only at the end [does] she find out that her secrets are a crucial part of who she is.”

Social media platforms such as Tiktok have also contributed to the movie’s popularity through trends, edits and dances to songs from the movie (New York Times). For a film like this, social media can also be necessary in creating a space for people to discuss the movie. Social media algorithms allowed the movie to gain so many dedicated fans and views by recommending it to many different people. Despite never intending to view the movie, sophomore Olivia Gample shared how powerful the movie’s presence is on social media.

“Although I haven’t watched ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’,” Gample said, “I’ve heard many of the songs through social media.”

Critics suggest the movie depends on its glamorous aesthetic and doesn’t offer anything more. Others wonder whether the praise is simply a result of the social media attention the film received. However, these critics are mistaken because the aesthetically pleasing character designs and bold colors allow the movie to be appealing and understandable for the children whom the movie is marketed for.

A notable part of the film are the catchy songs that get stuck in viewers’ heads as soon as they begin. A popular song is “How It’s Done” which is unique in the soundtrack due to its role in introducing “Huntrix”. “Golden” is another top choice with a message on accepting one’s true identity in its lyrics and notes that make the song impressive. “Golden” has topped Billboard Hot 100 and the UK's Official Singles lists, adding to the movie’s popularity. In the end, “K-Pop Demon Hunters” does deserve the fame it has received. Between the songs that have playing over and over again on the radio and in many fan’s heads and the conversations friends have had about the movie, countless people are now realizing how well the movie was constructed, combining trends with universal emotions.

Rather than dismissing “K-Pop Demon Hunters” as another craze or children’s movie that will eventually fade into obscurity, audiences should take the time to find its deeper meaning. Underneath the sparkly animations, satisfying songs and viral trends, lies a story that can teach everyone how to accept themselves for who they are and the value of teamwork. “K-Pop Demon Hunters” is an important reminder that even movies previously seen as a silly children's movie, can still offer heart, growth and true value.