Opinion ‘K-pop Demon Hunters’ is authentically Korean, yet utterly universal
Attention to detail roots it in contemporary Korea, with nods to its myths and legends, while its larger theme of self-acceptance makes it relatable to audiences across the world
The success of K-pop Demon Hunters comes down to much more than just Korean references 
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The success and popularity of K-pop Demon Hunters has surprised many, including me. As a K-pop fan, I did not expect the movie to become such a phenomenon. It has surpassed the 2021 action-comedy Red Notice, which stars Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot, to become Netflix’s most-watched film with its music topping charts worldwide and a sequel already in the works.
The film follows Huntr/X, an all-female K-pop group made up of three members, Rumi, Mira, and Zoey. The band uses music and dance, as well as weapons, to slay demons and create a magical barrier called the Honmoon, which acts as a shield for the human world. Their biggest challenge arises when they face the Saja Boys, a rival boy band group from the realm of Gwi-ma, the demon, who seek to take over the world by defeating Huntr/X.
Even though it is made in English, the film is a celebration of Korean life, from the bustling streets of Seoul to street food like corn dogs. Details like the girls eating ramyeon and kimbap on a flight or placing napkins under their chopsticks while eating deepen the authenticity of the depiction. The Korean language also appears naturally in songs and dialogue, used just enough to for a realistic touch.
The film blends localisation and globalisation, honouring Korean culture while speaking to audiences worldwide. The accurate attention to detail is one of its greatest strengths. For example, the attire of demons in the film is inspired by the Jeoseung Saja, a kind of grim reaper guiding the dead to the afterlife in Korean mythology. Korean elements are woven so seamlessly in the story that viewers who are unfamiliar with the culture never feel alienated, while those who are will instantly recognise and appreciate the symbolism.
But the success of K-pop Demon Hunters comes down to much more than just Korean references. The film’s message about self-acceptance has wide resonance, especially among audiences of Asian heritage. Rumi, one of Huntr/X’s lead singers, is half-demon and half-shaman, a secret that she has had to carry her entire life and the weight of which eventually starts hindering her ability to sing. From childhood, she is conditioned to believe that people wouldn’t accept and love her if they knew the truth about her. A similar sort of conditioning happens in various Asian cultures where children are taught to keep their pain and vulnerabilities private, lest society reject or judge them. Family, reputation, tradition, and duty come before everything else even when it causes harm. This leads to a deep-rooted sense of shame that carries from childhood into adulthood.
This fear of rejection mirrors the harsh realities of the K-pop industry, where a gleaming surface hides brutal struggles. The music industry allows no room for vulnerability. Singers mask their emotions, putting up a happy and strong front at all times, no matter what they are struggling with. K-pop Demon Hunters shows this through Rumi, who carries the weight of being a celebrity while being forced to hide her true self. Her journey ultimately sends a message about loving every part of yourself, both good and bad and finding beauty in your flaws. It’s also a reminder that you are not alone and it’s okay to lean on loved ones for support.
anupama.yadav@indianexpress.com
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