‘KPop Demon Hunters’ stars call for Korean culture to be mainstream: “Drop the K”

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The stars of KPop Demon Hunters have called for Korean culture to be considered mainstream, rather than being distinguished with a “K” in front of it.

The Netflix animation has become a global phenomenon, becoming the streamer’s most watched film of all time as well as achieving chart success with the song ‘Golden’ from the movie.

A new interview with Variety brought together the film’s stars: EJAE, Ji-young Yoo, Audrey Nuna, Arden Cho, May Hong and Rei Ami, who provide the singing and speaking voices for the three main characters.

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Discussing the movie’s success, the actors talked about their joy at a story being told from a Korean perspective finding a global audience. EJAE remarked: “I heard from a Korean director who said that if it were made by a Korean director, it would not be the same.

“The fact that it was made by a Korean Canadian means that we were able to make a film like this that can resonate with both Korea and the world, because our perspective of Korea is also very different.”

Arden Cho added: “This movie is now, and I feel this is the beginning of showing the world that K-pop, K-fashion, K-beauty … The K is …”

Rei Ami then interjected: “… It’s no more. Drop the K.”

K-Pop Demon Hunters is part of a larger wave of Korean art that is finding an audience globally. The newly reunited K-pop icons BTS × About group BTS BTS (방탄소년단) is a South Korean K-pop group formed by BigHit Music and debuted on June 13, 2013. The group consists of seven members: RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Known for their powerful performances, meaningful lyrics, and strong connection with fans, BTS has become one of the most successful and influential music groups in the world. Their music explores themes such as youth, self-discovery, mental health, love, and personal growth, helping them build a dedicated global fanbase known as ARMY. Since their debut, BTS has achieved record-breaking success across the global music industry with hit songs such as “Dynamite,” “Butter,” “Spring Day,” “Boy With Luv,” and “Fake Love.” The group has earned numerous awards, topped charts in multiple countries, sold millions of albums, and helped introduce K-pop to a broader international audience. Through their artistry, cultural Tap again to view profile → Close are due to embark on a world tour in 2026, beginning with a live Netflix streamed performance, while Stray Kids × About group Stray Kids Stray Kids is an eight-member self-producing boy group known for intense performances, experimental sound, and powerful rap lines. Tap again to view profile → Close are currently in cinemas with their live concert movie Stray Kids: The dominATE Experience.

Recently, the presidents of Sony Pictures Animation, the studio behind K-Pop Demon Hunters, revealed that a sequel is unlikely to arrive before 2030 due to the process of making animated films.

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