K‑Pop Demon Hunters has made history for Netflix, earning the highest Rotten Tomatoes score ever for a Netflix original film. The animated feature, which debuted on June 20, 2025, has quickly become a global sensation, topping charts and winning over both critics and audiences.
Record-Breaking Scores and Global Popularity
The film currently holds a 96% critic rating and an 85% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, surpassing all previous Netflix originals in combined ratings. This achievement comes as K‑Pop Demon Hunters dominates Netflix’s global movie charts, reaching No. 1 in 41 countries—including South Korea, the US, Taiwan, and Portugal—within its first four days. It also landed in the Top 10 in 93 countries, reflecting its broad international appeal.
A Fresh Take on K‑Pop and Supernatural Action
Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the movie follows HUNTR/X, a K-pop girl group whose members secretly fight demons threatening humanity. The group’s music acts as a magical shield, but their mission is put to the test when they discover their rival boy band, the Saja Boys, is a group of demons. The film blends high-energy musical numbers with supernatural action, offering a playful yet heartfelt tribute to K-pop culture.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Buzz
Critics have praised the film’s vibrant animation, catchy soundtrack, and clever nods to K-pop and K-drama tropes. The all-star voice cast, featuring Arden Cho, May Hong, Yoo Ji Young, Lee Byung Hun, Kim Yun Jin, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Jeong, and Ahn Hyo Seop, has been widely applauded for bringing charisma and depth to the characters.
Fans have flooded social media with positive reactions, celebrating the film’s infectious songs and its authentic depiction of K-pop fandom. Many are already calling for sequels, spin-offs, and even a TV series.
Star-Studded Soundtrack Drives Success
The soundtrack, produced by K-pop industry legends such as Teddy Park and Lindgren, features performances from Twice members Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung. The film’s songs, especially “Takedown” and the Saja Boys’ viral hit “Soda Pop,” have been praised for their energy and replay value.
Controversy Sparks Conversation
While the film’s success has been nearly universal, it has faced some criticism online, particularly from Chinese netizens who have claimed that elements of the movie borrow from Chinese culture. Despite the debate, the controversy has had little impact on slowing the film’s momentum or global popularity.
A Landmark Moment for Netflix Animation
K‑Pop Demon Hunters has set a new standard for Netflix originals, proving that stories rooted in K-pop and Korean culture can resonate with a worldwide audience. With its record-breaking Rotten Tomatoes score and continued streaming success, the film has established itself as a cultural phenomenon, and fans are eager to see what comes next.
