Now Streaming on Netflix
Spoiler Alert
When the tokusatsu genre becomes predictable, blending it with other narrative styles is necessary to keep things fresh—and that’s where KPop Demon Hunters excels. This film is an enjoyable mix of Sailor Moon and Rock and Rule, with a splash of satire that hits the mark. However, one overused trope still lingers: why must every Asian superheroine have impossibly long legs? Ever since CLAMP popularized the look, I’ve hoped for more body diversity.
In another respect, this movie also stands out for its hilarious take on the behind-the-scenes world of K-pop. It’s a musical showdown between the girl group Huntrix—Rumi, Mira, and Zoey (Park Sooyoung, Lee Suhyun, and Sandara Park)—and the newly arrived Saja Boys. Though the trailer gives a lot away, it’s no surprise they’re demons in disguise. Their leader, Jinu (Ahn Hyo-seop), is planning to help his king return to the material world and harvest souls. But despite his devotion to this ancient evil, there’s something conflicted about him.
Similarly, Rumi struggles to connect with her guardian, much like Jinu wrestles with his own isolation. As the faces of their respective teams, Rumi finds support among her bandmates, while Jinu remains emotionally cut off—his silence only deepening the weight of his mission. This shared loneliness sets the stage for a connection neither of them expects.
The narrative is both traditional and multi-layered. While Mira and Zoey don’t get as much character development, a sequel could change that. The hints of their personalities are archetypal—reminiscent of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, where Leonardo and Raphael often clash before learning the value of teamwork. It’s a tried-and-true formula in stories about superhero squads.
Overall, I love the film’s visual design. Sony Pictures Animation clearly understands they’ve struck gold with the style developed in the Into the Spider-Verse series. Applying that aesthetic here brings both the K-pop and demonic worlds to vibrant life. I’m especially intrigued by the mysterious six-eyed magpie and tiger. They’re more than comic relief. In Korean folklore, they’re known as Hojak-do or Horangi Minhwa. While less familiar to Western audiences, their roles here suggest they’re supernatural messengers.
The film only scratches the surface of its larger mythos, and I’m eager for more. When the world-building is strong, and the music is central to the narrative, there’s room for wild and fascinating theories. The story ends with a few lingering questions—some may not need answers, but one new “plot hole” certainly begs for closure. Not continuing this saga in some form would waste the energy behind its killer soundtrack and imaginative world-building.
4 Stars out of 5
KPop Demon Hunters Trailer
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