KPop Demon hunters to return with new sequel

Agencies,New York,  Mar. 14: After months of speculation, Netflix and Sony have officially confirmed that a “KPop Demon Hunters” sequel is in development. Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans will return to write and direct the follow-up, which is reportedly targeting a 2029 release. 

The sequel will also mark the beginning of Kang and Appelhans’ new exclusive multi-year writing and directing deal with Netflix across animation.

“I feel immense pride as a Korean filmmaker that audiences want more from this Korean story and our Korean characters,” Kang said. “There is so much more to explore in the world we’ve built, and I’m excited to show it to you. This is only the beginning.”

“KPop Demon Hunters” was a fantasy adventure centred on a fictional K-pop girl group who protect the world from demons through their music. While plot details for the second film have yet to be confirmed, Appelhans hinted that the filmmaking duo are “excited to write their next chapter, challenge them and watch them evolve”.

“These characters are like family to us,” he said. “Their world has become our second home.” The announcement comes ahead of the Oscars, where “KPop Demon Hunters” has been nominated for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for “Golden”. 

Developed and produced by Sony Pictures Animation, the film debuted directly on Netflix as part of a licensing deal. It went on to become a phenomenon and now ranks as the streamer’s most-watched film of all time. It even enjoyed box office success when Netflix released a sing-along version in cinemas for fan events in autumn 2025.

“With ‘KPop Demon Hunters’, Maggie and Chris didn’t just reach audiences — they ignited a global fandom that crossed languages, generations and genres,” said Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria. “We’re incredibly proud to deepen our partnership with them and, together with our partners at Sony Pictures Animation, expand this universe in ways that will surprise and delight fans around the world.”

Netflix Film chairman Dan Lin praised Kang and Appelhans for being “brave enough to take a bold creative swing by telling a story that was both deeply personal and broke cultural barriers”.

“At Netflix, our goal is to make someone’s favourite film,” Lin said. “They achieved that by making the most popular Netflix film of all time.”

Sony Pictures Animation presidents Kristine Belson and Damien de Froberville added: “Championing 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 distinct perspectives to this film, telling a story that audiences embraced across the globe. We’re thrilled to work with them to expand their vision in the next chapter.”