Los Angeles: KPop Demon Hunters creator Maggie Kang has ruled out any plans for a live-action adaptation of her hit Netflix animated film. She believes the story’s energy and humour can only exist in animation.
In an interview with the BBC, Kang said the film’s tone is deeply tied to the animated format.
“There are so many elements of tone and comedy that work only in animation,” she explained. “It’s hard to imagine these characters in a live-action world. It would feel too real and lose its charm.”
Co-director Chris Appelhans agreed with Kang. He said that animation gives creators more freedom to explore imagination and exaggeration. “Rumi can be this goofy comedian one second and do a spinning back-kick the next,” Appelhans said. “That’s the joy of animation, pushing what’s possible.”
Why you may not see a live-action version of ‘Kpop Demon Hunters’ any time soon https://t.co/m0uRdoHkfr
— CTV News (@CTVNews) October 14, 2025Since premiering on Netflix in June, KPop Demon Hunters has shattered viewing records. It is now the most-watched movie in Netflix history. The film’s soundtrack also broke barriers, topping Billboard charts and landing four songs in the Hot 100’s top 10. The lead single “Golden” stayed at No. 1 for eight weeks.
Read: Netflix’s ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Tops Box Office with $18M Sing-Along Event
Despite its success, Kang plans to continue the story through animation. She hinted at a sequel that will explore the backstories of Zoey and Mira, two key members of the Huntr/x team. KPop Demon Hunters is now streaming globally on Netflix.
