Netflix Confirms KPop Demon Hunters Sequel As Directors Sign Exclusive Deal
Netflix and Sony will reunite Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans for a sequel after the animated film became Netflix's most-watched original and earned two Oscar nominations.
Overview
Netflix confirmed a sequel to KPop Demon Hunters and said Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans will return after signing an exclusive writing and directing pact with the streamer.
The original, produced by Sony before a first-look release on Netflix, became the most-watched Netflix original film and earned two Oscar nominations for original song and animated film.
Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria praised the first film for igniting "a global fandom that crossed languages, generations, and genres."
The film has more than 325 million views, its single "Golden" topped charts in more than 30 countries and held the US No. 1 spot for 18 nonconsecutive weeks over six months.
No release date has been set, and Appelhans said reports of a 2029 release appeared premature given the extensive work required on a film like this.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the sequel as inevitable and celebratory, using upbeat language ("inevitably," "sky-high expectations," "stuck in your head") and foregrounding studio and creator statements and Variety's optimism. they briefly note the Hollywood Reporter’s caution but marginalize critics or audience skepticism, producing a promotional, blockbuster-success narrative through selective emphasis and quote curation.
FAQ
Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans will return as directors after signing an exclusive writing and directing deal with Netflix.
It became Netflix's most-watched original film with over 325 million views, earned two Oscar nominations for original song and animated film, and its single 'Golden' topped charts in over 30 countries.
Reports indicate a 2029 release for KPop Demon Hunters 2, though director Chris Appelhans called it premature due to the extensive work involved.
Bela Bajaria praised it for igniting a global fandom that crossed languages, generations, and genres.