K-pop Demon Hunters: is it really worth all the hype?

Sungjune Park
Sep 18
2 min read

Analyzing the reasons behind the success of the Korean Musical Animation

K-pop Demon Hunters is a Sony Pictures Animation film taking place in an imagined South Korea, where demons and humans coexist. Demon-hunters protect their fans from an ever-present supernatural threat. The story revolves around Rumi, the lead vocalist of the K-pop group HUNTR/X, who is secretly a half-demon while being a demon hunter.

The film performed outstandingly in Korea and internationally, thanks to its complex understanding of Korean culture and its heart-warming theme. Showcasing the energy of K-pop, the soundtrack contains songs such as Soda Pop and Golden, which have gone viral on social media.

K-pop Demon Hunters also presents ancient Korean folk tales and artworks. The Saja Boys, the main villains of the story, are based on Joseung Saja, who is a Korean Grim Reaper known for his dark outfits and pale appearance. Additionally, the famous icons of the movie, Sussie and Derpy, were also based on an ancient Korean folk painting.

The magpie and tiger dynamic inspired the characters’ design. Traditionally displayed every New Year, the pairing was believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune, just as Sussie and Derpy were the ones who brought good news to Rumi. The characters modernized the old-fashioned culture into a modern icon, helping to introduce Korean culture to the world.

Moreover, the film resonated deeply with the teenage audience through its themes. The main character, Rumi, constantly fears that her group will reject her due to her bloodline, and she desires to belong on the human side of the world. The messages the film sends help teenagers embrace their own identities and find the confidence in seeking true friendship and belonging.

The film is a masterpiece, but my personal cinematic perspective on the film is quite different. While I was watching the film, I felt like I was watching a set of YouTube shorts. One of the biggest problems of today is children’s attention span, and the movie was built around the problem. It is filled with constant dopamine stimuli to capture the audience’ interests. There were no breaks to let the audience connect to the movie deeply.

However, this design isn’t necessarily a flaw. The movie is made for kids, and it is perfect for kids. The movie is for entertainment and entertainment only, and if you are looking for a good time with friends and family, K-pop Demon Hunters is a great choice.

Sungjune Park ‘29

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