One of 2025's biggest hits, the Netflix animated film K-pop Demon Hunters' sequel may not be released until the next decade, sparking fierce debate among fans.
According to the Daily Mail's report on the 16th (local time), the sequel, originally discussed for a 2029 release, may be postponed to after 2030 due to production schedule delays. Sony Pictures Animation said director Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans are focusing on Oscar campaign schedules, which is delaying full-scale work on the sequel.
Fans reacted with mixed feelings when the news broke. Some expressed concern, saying "Will the generation that is enthusiastic now wait that long?" and "If it's too late, the brand's power could be weakened." On social media, the phrase "generational fumble" even appeared, expressing disappointment.
Others defended the creators, saying "Animation production takes at least four to five years" and "I'd rather wait for a true masterpiece than a rushed sequel." Disney's Frozen 2, which was released six years later and outgrossed its predecessor, was also cited as an example.
K-pop Demon Hunters topped Netflix's viewing charts after its June 20, 2025 release, becoming the most-watched original title in Netflix history. It reached No. 1 among all streaming films in the United States, creating a phenomenon-level popularity.
In particular, the OST "Golden," performed by the fictional girl group "HuntRix," reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and set the record as the first K-pop song to win a Grammy. The soundtrack was certified double platinum, asserting its presence in the music market.
The film's premise is that the No. 1 Korean girl group leads a double life as demon hunters and battles the boy group disguised as demons, "Lion Boys." Combining the K-pop universe with fantasy action, it formed a global fandom.
The work is currently being discussed as a contender for best picture and best original song at the Academy Awards and is considered a strong candidate for winning.
Whether the sequel will be delayed until after 2030 or the production schedule will be moved up is attracting attention. Given fans' high expectations, whether the long wait will become "brand expansion" or a "cooling of enthusiasm" depends on future strategy.
[Photo] Netflix
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