If you’re scouring Disney Plus for KPop Demon Hunters, the animated hit about K-pop idols slaying demons, you’re out of luck.
It’s a Netflix exclusive with zero plans to switch platforms. The backstory—why it’s locked there, its massive success, and the production path that led to Netflix first—unfolds like a thrilling plot twist. Let’s dig in.
Here’s the TL;DR…
- Release Status: KPop Demon Hunters won’t come to Disney Plus, staying Netflix-only.
- Production Start: Launched in 2022 by Sony as a Netflix original to target K-pop’s global fans.
- Streaming Hit: Hit 158 million views, 97% Rotten Tomatoes, 92% audience score, ranking fourth on Netflix by August 11, 2025.
- Music Success: Reached No. 3 on Billboard 200, “Golden” topped Streaming Songs, boosted cast fame.
- Disney Exclusion: Exclusive Netflix deal and mismatched focus keep it off Disney Plus.
Short Answer: Never
KPop Demon Hunters isn’t heading to Disney Plus. That’s the final word.
Why It’s a Netflix Exclusive
This epic began in 2022 under Sony Pictures Animation as a Netflix original.
Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, it follows HUNTR/X—Rumi (Arden Cho), Mira (May Hong), and Zoey (Ji-young Yoo)—facing off against a demonic boy band led by Jinu (Ahn Hyo-seop).
Penned by Danya Jimenez, Hannah McMechan, Kang, and Appelhans, it mixes K-pop energy with fantasy. Netflix’s 300 million global subscribers and knack for worldwide launches made it the go-to over a theater run. Sony chose this route to ride K-pop’s global wave.
Production Journey
The film took three years to build, starting as a Netflix project to challenge the animation big leagues.
With voices like Ken Jeong (Bobby) and Daniel Dae Kim (Healer Han), its sharp visuals got a celebrity lift. Netflix’s data-driven strategy and instant global reach fit K-pop’s borderless appeal, sealing the deal.
Explosive Success
Released on June 20, 2025, KPop Demon Hunters racked up 158 million views in weeks, topping Netflix’s animated originals.
It earned a 97% Rotten Tomatoes score, with critics praising its cultural blend, and 92% from audiences.
By August 11, 2025, it ranks fourth among Netflix’s English-language films, captivating the 18-44 crowd with Frozen-like hype and sequel talk.
Soundtrack Sensation
The soundtrack, crafted by Teddy Park, Jenna Andrews, and Stephen Kirk, delivers HUNTR/X hits and TWICE’s “Strategy” remix.
It debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard 200, then hit No. 3 with 62,000 units—a 97% jump.
“Golden” led Streaming Songs as the first all-female group to top it, while “Your Idol” and “How It’s Done” hit the Hot 100. Kevin Woo’s Spotify followers leaped from 10,000 to 25 million.
Why Not Disney Plus?
It’s a Netflix original, tied to a Sony-Netflix exclusivity deal.
Disney’s family-oriented lineup (Pixar, Marvel) doesn’t match K-pop’s global edge, and rights swaps aren’t in play.
Like Nimona before it, it won’t be available on Disney Plus, only Netflix.
Sources
Compiled and edited by Ivy Adams for Pirates & Princesses.
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