Image Credit: Netflix
It’s been reported and suspected for a long time, but now it’s official: Netflix’s hit animated feature kpop demon hunter– The high-octane, rhythm-driven world is officially expanding with a full-blown sequel.
Netflix has confirmed that a sequel to the breakout film is currently in development, with directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans set to return. It is unclear where the film is in development, the announcement did not confirm that it was in production.
The announcement, just days before the film is set to win big at the Oscars, comes with the news that the Academy Award-nominated duo have entered into an exclusive, multi-year writing and directing deal with Netflix focused on animation. The upcoming sequel is the first project under this new creative partnership.
Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, the first kpop demon hunter Enthralled audiences globally after its soft launch. However, by the third week, it’s clear that this film doesn’t behave like any other film Netflix has released so far, defying gravity and breaking records along the way. As of the time of publication, the film has spent 38 consecutive weeks in the top 10 of Netflix, 965.5 million viewing hours and 579.0 Million full views.
Of course, a sequel has been in the works for some time, with Bloomberg first reporting that talks were underway by the end of 2025, with a 2029 date being targeted. Since then, bosses at Sony Animation have poured a little cold water on that release target, suggesting the wait could be longer.
Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans – Images courtesy of Netflix and Getty Images
Dan Lin, chairman of Netflix Film, said, “Maggie and Chris were so brave that they took a bold creative turn by telling a story that was deeply personal and also broke cultural barriers.” “At Netflix, our goal is to create someone’s favorite movie, and they’ve done just that by creating the most popular Netflix movie ever! There’s so much more story to tell, and we can’t wait to bring more HUNTR/X to fans everywhere.”
For Kang, returning to this specific universe is deeply meaningful.
“As a Korean filmmaker, I feel very proud that audiences want more of this Korean story and our Korean characters,” Kang said. “There’s so much more to this world we’ve built and I’m excited to show you. This is just the beginning.”
Appelhans echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the emotional connection he has with the project: “These characters are like family to us, their world has become our second home. We’re excited to write their next chapter, challenge them, and watch them grow – and continue to push the boundaries of how music, animation and story can come together.”
Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria noted the unprecedented impact of the first film: “With kpop demon hunterMaggie and Chris didn’t just reach audiences, they ignited a global fandom that crossed languages, generations and genres. We are incredibly proud to deepen our partnership with them and to work together with our colleagues at Sony Pictures Animation to create this universe that will surprise and delight fans around the world.”
Sony Pictures Animation is also optimistic about the future of the franchise. In a joint statement, presidents Christine Belson and Damien de Froberville said, “Supporting the bold creative visions of our filmmakers is at the heart of everything we do at Sony Pictures Animation. Maggie and Chris brought their incredibly different visions to this film, telling a story that resonated with audiences around the world. We are thrilled to work with them to expand their vision in the next chapter.”
While details on the plot and release window kpop demon hunter The sequel is being kept under wraps for now, we’ll be keeping a close eye on it as it develops.
Are you excited to see the next chapter? kpop demon hunter? Let us know in the comments below.