Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters Reaches 236 Million Views, Sparks Global K-Pop Business Partnerships

The Netflix original film "KPop Demon Hunters," co-directed by Maggie Kang, has become a monumental cultural and commercial success since its June 20, 2025 release, becoming Netflix's most-watched original film globally. The movie's soundtrack made history with four simultaneous top-10 Billboard Hot 100 hits, led by the chart-topping single "Golden," which has also gained massive real-world popularity mirroring its in-film trajectory. The film's story, centered around the female-led K-pop group HUNTR/X and complex characters like Rumi and Jinu, blends traditional and cartoonish animation to explore themes such as heritage and shame, contributing to its widespread appeal. "KPop Demon Hunters" has inspired major business collaborations with South Korean companies like Samsung Electronics, Nongshim, and Everland, further cementing its influence across entertainment and marketing sectors. Its global success follows an unusual viewership pattern, with steady Netflix engagement rather than an initial spike, highlighting Netflix's expansive international subscriber base and the film's unique resonance beyond the U.S. market. Industry insiders credit the film's appeal to its ability to engage not just children but also viewers in their 20s, leveraging social media buzz and high-quality animation and music.