Kpop Demon Hunters Becomes Netflix’s Most-Watched Animated Film Ever, Breaks Music Charts with “Golden”
Netflix’s animated sensation Kpop Demon Hunters has made history as the streamer’s most-watched animated film ever, racking up over 158 million views since its release. The film now ranks #4 on Netflix’s all-time most popular English-language films list, solidifying its place as a global phenomenon.
A Demon-Slaying K-Pop Adventure
Co-written and co-directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the film follows Rumi (Arden Cho), Mira (May Hong), and Zoey (Ji-young Yoo)—three K-pop idols in the group Huntr/x—who inherit an ancient demon-slayer lineage. When their demonic nemesis (Lee Byung-hun) creates a rival K-pop boy band to steal fans’ souls, the trio must balance fame, friendship, and fighting evil.
Why Audiences Are Connecting
The film resonates with viewers for more than its action-packed sequences and stylish animation. Themes of identity, vulnerability, and breaking boundaries run deep.
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May Hong points to its lessons on honesty and self-discovery.
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Ji-young Yoo relates to Zoey’s journey as a Korean American navigating dual heritage.
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Arden Cho connects to the empowering message in Huntr/x’s anthem “Golden”, which mirrors her own experiences as an Asian American actress in Hollywood.
“Golden” – A Real-World Smash Hit
The film’s fictional hit single “Golden” has transcended the screen, becoming the #1 movie soundtrack on Spotify and the highest-charting soundtrack of 2025 on the Billboard 200. Notable achievements include:
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First K-pop album to top both U.S. Apple Music and iTunes simultaneously.
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#1 on Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global Excl. U.S. for non-consecutive weeks.
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Multiple tracks from the soundtrack charting worldwide.
Written by Ejae and performed by Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, “Golden” has become an anthem of empowerment for fans around the globe.
Breaking Barriers in Representation
Cho praises the film for portraying three-dimensional Asian American characters whose stories are not solely defined by their ethnicity.
“We are unapologetic about our culture, but the film is celebrated for how great it is—not just because we’re Korean or Korean American,” Cho says.
With action, comedy, romance, and heartfelt drama, Kpop Demon Hunters offers a refreshing blend of representation and entertainment—and its skyrocketing success suggests it’s only the beginning.
