Just days before Kpop Demon Hunters is expected to be golden at the Oscars, Netflix has closed deals for directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans to return for the sequel as part of a new, multi-year writing and directing pact.
Sony Pictures Animation is behind the sequel as well as the original animated film, which became the most watched movie in Netflix history and spawned numerous hit songs. It told the story of K-pop group Huntrix, whose music is secretly the key to preventing demons from invading our world.
No date has been set for a sequel, though a previously reported date of 2029 is unlikely given how many years it takes to make an animated project of this size. Kang and Appelhans are said to only be in the early stages, and will turn their attention to the movie in earnest after awards season.
“I feel immense pride as a Korean filmmaker that the audience wants more from this Korean story and our Korean characters. There’s so much more to this world we have built and I’m excited to show you. This is only the beginning,” Kang said in a statement. Added Appelhans: “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.”
The film is the favorite to win the best animated feature and best original song for “Golden” at the Oscars.
Its outsized streaming success sparked debate around Hollywood over if Sony should have made the film for theaters rather than for Netflix as part of a deal it has with the streamer. Those inside the studio have maintained the film, which didn’t take off on the streaming service until several weeks into its run, needed time to find an audience, and that wouldn’t have been likely to happen in theaters.
“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,” said Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria.
Added Netflix film chairman Dan Lin: “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. 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 Huntrix to fans everywhere.”
As for Sony, animation president’s Kristine Belson and Damien de Froberville noted: 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.”
Kang is repped by UTA, LEDE, and Johnson Shapiro. Appelhans is repped by UTA and Johnson Shapiro.