KPop Demon Hunters has become Netflix’s biggest hit ever. This animated musical feature, created by Sony Pictures Animation, has broken viewership records since its June release. The film amassed more than 236 million views, surpassing Red Notice and Squid Game to claim Netflix’s top spot. The soundtrack is the first from a film to achieve four simultaneous Top 10 placements on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching over three billion global streams. However, fans searching for official toys are facing delays. Only limited merchandise is available this holiday period, despite the immense demand.
KPop Demon Hunters” HUNTR/X “What It Sounds Like” Fashion Doll 3-Pack
Global Success of KPop Demon Hunters
KPop Demon Hunters launched in June and swiftly rose to become Netflix’s most-watched film. Within weeks, its reach exploded worldwide thanks to social media momentum and word-of-mouth. Fans participated in a theatrical sing-along event that sold out more than 1,300 screenings across the United States, United Kingdom and Canada. The film’s music, infectious choreography and vibrant animation captured a global audience, driving repeated digital streaming and physical attendance.
KPop Demon Hunters boasts direction by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, with a screenplay from Kang, Danyaenez McMech, and Appelhans. The voice cast features Arden May, Ji Yoo, Yunjin, Joel Booster, Koshy Daniel, D Kim Jeong and Byung Hun Lee. Each performer brings to life the world-saving pop trio, Huntr/X, whose musical talents combine with combat prowess. The film features original tracks by EJ, AUDY N, RE AMI, Andrew Choi Chung, Woo, UIL Lee, Neckwav and Lea Salonga. Producers include DY, 24, O, Kirk, Gren and Ian Eisendrath.
Soundtrack and Cultural Impact
The film’s soundtrack made history alongside its viewership. KPop Demon Hunters became the first Netflix film to land four songs in the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 10 at the same time. The soundtrack reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 for the week of August 23, with more than three billion global streams. The musical numbers, including Golden, resonated strongly on streaming platforms including Spotify. The tracks incorporate elements from Korean music and Western genres, driven by collaboration with established K-pop producers and songwriters who have worked with BTS and Twice.
KPop Demon Hunters showcased Korean culture, art, fashion, food and language in nearly every scene. The film became the first animated English-language feature to blend Korean heritage with global entertainment at this scale. Maggie Kang and the production team’s vision concentrated on authenticity and cultural representation, contributing to the film’s infectious appeal.
Merchandise: Toys Arriving After Christmas
Fans seeking toys for the 2025 holiday season find few options. Mattel and Hasbro recently became co-master toy licensees, but supply chain and production timelines postponed the release of official dolls and action figures until 2026. On November 12, Mattel will open pre-orders for its HUNTR/X three-pack doll set, reimagining the animated idols Rumi, Mira, and Zoey with their signature outfits and weapons. Mattel will ship pre-order items next year, while Hasbro’s MONY Deal KPop Hunters set will also arrive in January 2026.
Currently, fans can buy select merchandise such as apparel, phone grips, ornaments and a card game at retailers and Netflix’s online store. The bulk of toys and collectables will reach shelves in Spring 2026, well after the franchise’s initial global splash.
Close-up of Rumi doll from “KPop Demon Hunters” HUNTR/X “What It Sounds Like” Fashion Doll 3-Pack
Consumer Demand and Franchise Potential
The film’s massive popularity has outpaced the merchandise rollout. Parents and young viewers have driven demand for official Huntr/X collectibles. Adobe estimated US online shoppers would spend more than $250 billion in November and December, with a growth of 5.3% from last year. Netflix considers toys and clothing primarily as promotional tools for its programming, rather than core revenue sources. The company’s long-term objective is to transform KPop Demon Hunters into a blockbuster kids’ franchise, which could secure ongoing success and licensing opportunities beyond traditional merchandise.
Also Read: KPop Demon Hunters Characters Inspired by Real K-pop and Anime
Australian Audiences and Industry Reaction
Australian viewers contributed significantly to KPop Demon Hunters’ success, streaming the film heavily after its release. Local retailers expect strong demand for toys when they become available next year. Industry insiders note the delay in merchandise as a missed short-term opportunity for retailers, but the franchise’s long-term prospects remain robust. The film’s influence is expected to extend into related product categories including games, clothing and interactive experiences, timed with the arrival of physical toys.
Official Response and Future Developments
Netflix’s chief marketing officer, Marian Lee, commented, “KPop Demon Hunters ignited a worldwide fan excitement. We’re witnessing dancing, singing, and an abundance of enthusiastic reactions that caught everyone off guard. HUNTR/X demonstrated that a truly remarkable trio is greater than the individual contributions.”
With merchandise arriving in 2026, Netflix and its partners are positioning KPop Demon Hunters for future expansion. Toy makers anticipate more releases throughout the year, offering fans new ways to engage with the film’s world and characters. The franchise aims to build on its cultural impact by driving ongoing innovation across entertainment and retail.
