Picture Credit: Netflix
It’s long been reported and suspected, but now it’s official: Netflix’s hit animated feature KPop Demon Hunters—the high-octane, rhythm-infused world is officially expanding with a full-blown sequel.
Netflix has confirmed that a sequel to the breakout film is currently in development, with directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans set to return at the helm. Where the movie is in development is unclear, the announcement did not confirm that it was in production.
This announcement, just days before the movie looks poised to win big at the Oscars, comes alongside news that the Academy Award-nominated duo has entered into an exclusive, multi-year writing and directing deal with Netflix, focused on animation. The upcoming sequel marks the very first project under this new creative partnership.
Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, the first KPop Demon Hunters captivated audiences globally after having a soft launch. By week 3, however, it’s clear that this movie doesn’t behave as any other film Netflix has ever released, defying gravity and smashing records along the way. As of the time of publishing, the movie has now spent 38 weeks straight in the Netflix top 10s, picking up 965.5 million viewing hours and 579.0 million completed views.
Of course, a sequel has been on the cards for a while now, with Bloomberg first reporting that negotiations were underway as of late 2025, with a 2029 date targeted. Since then, Sony Animation bosses have put a bit of cold water on that release target, suggesting the wait may be much longer.
Maggie Kang And Chris Appelhans – Picture courtesy of Netflix and Getty Images
“Maggie and Chris were brave enough to take a bold creative swing by telling a story that was both deeply personal and broke cultural barriers,” said Dan Lin, Chairman of Netflix Film. “At Netflix, our goal is to make someone’s favorite movie and they did that by making the most popular Netflix movie of all time! There’s so much more story to tell, and we can’t wait to bring more HUNTR/X to fans everywhere.”
For Kang, returning to this specific universe is deeply meaningful.
“I feel immense pride as a Korean filmmaker that the audience wants more from this Korean story and our Korean characters,” said Kang. “There’s so much more to this world we have built and I’m excited to show you. This is only the beginning.”
Appelhans echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the emotional connection to the project: “These characters are like family to us, their world has become our second home. We’re excited to write their next chapter, challenge them and watch them evolve — and continue pushing the boundaries of how music, animation and story can come together.”
Bela Bajaria, Netflix Chief Content Officer, noted the unprecedented impact of the first film: “With KPop Demon Hunters, Maggie and Chris didn’t just reach audiences, they ignited a global fandom that crossed languages, generations, and genres. We’re incredibly proud to deepen our partnership with them and, together with our partners at Sony Pictures Animation, build this universe in ways that will surprise and delight fans all over the world.”
Sony Pictures Animation is similarly bullish on the future of the franchise. In a joint statement, 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 audiences embraced around the globe. We are thrilled to work with them to expand their vision in the next chapter.”
While details on the plot and release window for the KPop Demon Hunters sequel are currently being kept under wraps, we’ll be keeping a close eye on this one as it develops.
Are you excited to see the next chapter of KPop Demon Hunters? Let us know in the comments below.
