Latest news with #KPop
Forbes
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Netflix Made A Fictional K-Pop Group With Real Streaming Power
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 16: (L-R) Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans speak during the KPop Demon ... More Hunters Special Screening at Netflix Tudum Theater on June 16, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo byfor Netflix) On June 23, 2025, Netflix and Sony Animation's fictional girl group HUNTR/X from the film KPop Demon Hunters was the most streamed girl group on global Spotify, outstreaming popular real-life girl groups like TWICE and KATSEYE in the process. Just days after the film's release, HUNTR/X has managed to capitalize on the film's success seemingly overnight, with several of their songs soaring to the top of the global Spotify charts. According to Pop Base, their song 'Golden' reached the top 20 most popular songs, sitting at number 14 with a total of 2.78 million streams in a single day, and that's in addition to the seven other songs the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack had chart on the same list. While this might seem like an anomaly, Netflix has managed to deliberately leverage the popularity of its films in tandem with fandom and the popularity of K-pop as a genre in an effective media strategy. Netflix has managed to turn fictional artists into real-world successes. Using K-Pop's popularity to their benefit SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - AUGUST 01: Girl group TWICE arrives at the M2 X Genie Music Awards on August ... More 01, 2019 in Seoul, South Korea. (Photo by Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images) Kpop Demon Hunters, released on June 20, 2025, is an animated film that follows a k-pop girl group, HUNTR/X, that tour by day and fight evil demons by night. The concept on it's own is already highly engaging, and manages to bring in fans of K-pop, fans of animation, and fans of fantasy. Already, the film has a wide variety of viewers, and, through that variety, Netflix and Sony were able to capitalize on their full music rollouts. Since the songs were each featured in the film, rather than being featured in a companion compilation album, fans were already familiarized with the songs that are now charting. K-Pop as an art form, is already one of the most successful vehicles for success in the music industry. With acts like the aforementioned girl group TWICE and other groups like BLACKPINK and BTS, the genre has shown a level brand loyalty and fandom that hasn't been seen for musical acts since the 90s, with fanbases of said groups often being international, multilingual, and more than willing to promote the groups they love. KPop Demon Hunters understands this and managed to capitalize on that formula, emulating the success of real life K-pop groups. Conversations on social media only aided this campaign, with the music being top of mind and the virality of those discussions allowing people who may not have seen the film to still engage with the music. Kpop Demon Hunters has shown that HUNTR/X is more than just a part of the film's narrative; it's a legitimate girl group with actual streaming power. Netflix Has Been Here Before HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 02: Miley Cyrus attends the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre on ... More March 02, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic) I remember dancing in the club in 2019, and the song 'On a Roll' performed by Miley Cyrus as her character Ashley O in Black Mirror began to play. It had never dawned on me until that moment that Cyrus's success as an artist, despite that particular episode explicitly showcasing how her character was trapped and being controlled by the music industry, would cause fans to ignore the themes of Black Mirror and still stream the song to success. For months, the song would be played, and people would take to the dance floor, singing it word for word. Even online, people were discussing the song's duality between authenticity and satire. The song became a real-world hit, charting at number 65 on the UK Singles Chart and number 18 in New Zealand, and even landed on Billboard's coveted best songs list for 2019. This shows that the success of Netflix's fictional acts is more than just a coincidence; it's deliberate. Keys to Success Having good music doesn't automatically equate to being a global success, but when a streaming juggernaut like Netflix is in your corner, doors open. Netflix has the fiscal means to hire top producers, writers, and singers. Often times, people can feel the difference between songs made for bands in films and songs made for bands that are successful in real life. For example, the song 'Takedown' from the film was perfomed by the real girl group TWICE, and the polish and authenticity they represent shines through. It also helps that fans are already familiar with the story that's associated with each of these songs. When fans listen to the song 'Golden,' they can relive the struggle and eventual triumph that the cast of characters went through to create and perform that single in the film. So, when fans stream that song, they aren't just listening to it because they like it; they're also listening to it to relive those moments in the film, which, in the end, might lead them to rewatch the movie, a win-win for Netflix. The Bigger Picture AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - OCTOBER 30: Vocaloid software artist Hatsune Miku performs at Afas Live on ... More October 30, 2024 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Paul Bergen/Redferns) We live in a world where fictional acts turned virtual idols, like the Gorillaz, Hatsune Miku, or the Squid Sisters from Nintendo's Splatoon, can fill arenas. With that knowledge, it makes complete sense that a streaming service like Netflix, which dabbles in multiple forms of content, capitalizes on its music, which it can root in long-form storytelling rather than short-form music videos. In the end, HUNTR/X is more than just a one-off trend. If anything, they've shown that they have the staying power, global reach, and storytelling necessary to not only push for a second film but also push for increased space and visibility for other fictional pop stars, even across genres. Netflix could be sitting on a potential goldmine by offering something different to a lane of serious competitors in an already saturated industry. If HUNTR/X proves anything, it's that people aren't just watching fictional artists in films; they're streaming them.
UAE Moments
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- UAE Moments
Love K-Pop Demon Hunters? Try These K-Dramas Next
Why 'K‑Pop Demon Hunters' Fans Will Love These K-Dramas Netflix's animated hit 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' captivated audiences by blending idol culture with supernatural action. With fans obsessed over its voice cast and plot twists, it's the perfect time to dive into live-action K-dramas that peel back the colorful veneer of K-pop life. You're Beautiful (2009) Where to Watch: Netflix, Viki This classic follows the fictional pop-rock band When actress Park Shin-hye goes undercover as her twin brother, she navigates love, secrets, and fame. Though ratings were modest on broadcast, it later earned a loyal cult following—complete with sold-out soundtracks and fan festivals. Dream High (2011) Where to Watch: Netflix, Viki Set in an elite arts school, 'Dream High' follows six aspiring idols finding their voices and selves. Featuring stars like Suzy, Taecyeon (2PM), IU, and Kim Soo‑hyun, it offers an insider's view of the idol-making process. The show's huge impact includes a Japanese stage adaptation and sequel. Top Management (2018) Where to Watch: YouTube (1theK) A fresh take combining fantasy and idol drama. Follows Seo Eun-soo, a former trainee with psychic powers, who steps in as manager for rookie group S.O.U.L. A deep dive into industry politics, featuring Ahn Hyo‑seop and ASTRO's Cha Eun‑woo. Reply 1997 (2012) Where to Watch: Viki Step into the golden age of K-pop with this nostalgic look at first-gen fandom. Centered on teenage fangirls and their favorite boy band, the show stars H.O.T. and a cast including Jung Eun‑ji, Seo In‑guk, and Hoya —a perfect cultural time capsule. Idol: The Coup (2021) Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video Not all idol stories end with fame. This gritty drama follows struggling girl group Cotton Candy fighting for one last shot. With EXID's Hani leading, this series shines a light on the sacrifices of idols outside the spotlight. The Big Picture Fans of 'K‑Pop Demon Hunters' love the bold mix of flashy idol life and unexpected drama. These K-dramas deliver that same thrill—minus the demons—and offer a deeper, more emotional look at the K-pop grind: If you're hooked on the idol-drama tension of 'K-Pop Demon Hunters', these K-dramas are your next binge. They bring charisma, ambition, heartbreak, and fierce shine straight from the K-pop machine—no demon slaying required.
Geek Feed
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Feed
Huntrix Don't Miss: K-Pop Demon Hunters Tearing Up the Music Charts
People were expecting Netflix's K-Pop Demon Hunters to have some bops in the soundtrack, and it looks like the movie is definitely delivering on the music front as well. According to @chartsdata, the soundtrack for K-Pop Demon Hunters , the past weekend has earned the album the position of No. 1 on US iTunes, and what's more, the album also got 8.5 million streams on Spotify following the release day. 'KPop Demon Hunters' soundtrack earned its biggest streaming day of all-time on Spotify on June 22 with 8.5 million streams. Its up 500% vs release day. — chart data (@chartdata) June 23, 2025 As it turns out, it actually took a huge team to bring the Huntrix to life on the big screen. Besides the original songs being written by several writers including Danny Chung, IDO, EJAE, Vince, Jenna Andrews, and more; the movie also brought in new singers to record the original songs including EJAE (Rumi), Audrey Nuna (Mira), and Rei Ami (Zoey). We don't know how long the KPDH train is going to run yet, but the movie is currently No. 1 on Netflix, and a lot of people online have been gushing about how it celebrates everything that fans love about K-Pop from the band members having specific personalities to them going on game shows and having fan meets. No sequel has been announced for K-Pop Demon Hunters yet, but the ending does leave fans hopeful for a follow-up, especially with the billboard of Huntrix saying they have a new song/album called Comeback. Some are even hoping that the girls actually get to go on a world tour this time, and maybe they can find Hunters from every other nation—pretty much like what happened with Trolls World Tour . Catch K-Pop Demon Hunters now streaming on Netflix.
UAE Moments
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- UAE Moments
Why is Everyone Obsessed With Netflix's K-Pop Demon Hunters?
Summer got hotter, but not with the latest K-drama releases, instead with Netflix's American-South Korean animated feature 'K-Pop Demon Hunters'. The animated film is directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, who have created an exciting story about a K-pop girl group, Huntrix, who fight demons with their music to protect humans from getting their souls taken by the demon's leader, Gwi-Ma. They use their voice to maintain a barrier called the Honmoon, which protects the human world from the demons. However, they are challenged by the demon K-pop boy-group Saja Boys, who are trying to take over the human world with their music. K-Pop Culture Since the movie revolves around K-pop, fans love the representation of the K-pop fandom. From fan signings to stans shipping K-pop idols, fans find the representation of this pop culture phenomena authentic, relatable, and funny. The directors and writers received assistance from K-pop fans and writers Bo Yeon Kim and Erika Lippoldt, authentically representing various aspects of this global phenomenon. The movie would be nothing without its soundtrack, with catchy and relatable songs like 'Golden', 'Soda Pop', 'Free', and 'How it's Done'. It was composed by Marcelo Zarvos, while the lyrics were written by Danny Chung, Ido, Vince, Kush, Ejae, Jenna Andrews, Stephen Kirk, Lindgren, Mark Sonnenblick, and Daniel Rojas. Singers of the famous K-pop group, Twice, Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung, have sung the lead single, 'Takedown', representing the heart and soul of K-pop. Catchy Songs The lyricists and producers have created memorable songs that mimic the nature of trendy K-pop music, combining rap, addictive beats, and meaningful lyrics to connect with K-pop fans. The songs also perfectly complement the action and plot development of the film, enhancing the distinctness of this animated film because we have never had a story of demon hunters fighting demons with their K-pop music? Is it just a Good Vs. Evil Story? The story itself is a typical good vs. evil story; however, it is presented in a modern and urban context, especially the connection between Korean demon mythology and K-pop culture. Kang created a unique combination of these two phenomena, which allows the story to connect with viewers instantly. Huntrix includes Rumi, Zoey, and Mira, but Rumi, as the protagonist, is not the typical heroine, hiding secrets of her own. However, Saja Boys' lead Jinu discovers her secret, and the story moves forward from there. With Kang, screenwriters Chris Appelhans, Hannah McMechan, and Danya Jimenez have created an exciting, heartwarming, and empathetic story featuring themes of overcoming one's fears, self-discovery, friendship, and romance. Rumi and Jinu represent various K-drama romance tropes with their constant banter and heartfelt moments, but their relationship is more complicated than a simple love story, which hooks fans from the get-go. Stunning Visuals The directors Kang and Appelhans have created a visually exciting animated feature with Sony Pictures Animation. It is similar to 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse', but it stands out with its exciting fight sequences between the Huntrix and the demons, the K-pop performances, and the Saja Boys' final live performance, where the real showdown begins. The animation and the visuals are beautiful and striking, making K-Pop Demon Hunters a thrilling watch. Voice actors Ahn Hyo-seop ('Business Proposal'), May Hong, Ji-young Yoo, Yunjin Kim, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Jeong, Lee Byung-hun ('Squid Game') have done a fabulous job, creating distinct personalities for their characters. Arden Cho and Ahn Hyo-seop nailed down Rumi and Jinu, creating holistic characters and perfectly depicting the complex chemistry between them. How fascinating is it that Squid Game's Front Man voices Gwi-Ma in this film? Lee Byung-hun perfectly created a terrifying demon leader, who is a bit similar to the Front Man's frightening personality. If you haven't watched 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' yet, you definitely should because it has the story, the visuals, and the K-pop drama to glue you to your screen.
UAE Moments
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- UAE Moments
BTS's Jimin Was the Inspo Behind the Character of Baby Saja
In the Netflix animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters, one adorable character has caught fans' attention already... And it turns out, he was inspired by none other than BTS's Jimin! Join our FREE WhatsApp channel to dive into a world of real-time engagement! Character designer Marion Borden revealed that Jimin was a key muse when designing the lovable Baby Saja. 'I actually took a lot of inspiration from BTS's Jimin for the cuteness aspect,' Borden shared, and it totally shows. With his soft expressions, charming presence, and graceful aura, Jimin's influence shines through in Baby Saja's design and a few other characters too! #JIMIN inspired the creation and character of ''Baby Saja'' in the new Netflix animated film "Kpop Demon Hunters"! Netflix's K-Pop Demon Hunters character designer #MarionBorden shared that #Jimin was a major inspiration behind the characters' cuteness! 'I actually took a lot of… — World Music Awards (@WORLDMUSICAWARD) June 22, 2025 The film, which blends K-pop glam with supernatural adventure and Baby Saja looks set to be one of the standout characters thanks to Jimin's spark of inspiration. Jimin's global impact continues to grow far beyond music. From fashion to animation, his charm and grace are inspiring artists and creatives across the world.
