Netflix’s Biggest Hit Ever Is Getting a Sequel

Sony Pictures and Netflix are in talks to create a sequel to the animated hit KPop Demon Hunters, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter.

The original film has become a massive success, topping Netflix’s list of most-watched English-language movies ever with 236 million views.

The fantasy musical has captured global attention, helped by a recent theatrical sing-along release over the weekend of August 22–24.

The movie’s soundtrack is also breaking records, becoming the first to have four songs in the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 at the same time, led by Huntrix’s “Golden.”

Netflix head of film Dan Lin praised the partnership with Sony, saying, “As word of mouth spread and social media caught on, we saw viewing really take off and the movie became a cultural phenomenon — it’s one of the only films to grow its audiences in its fifth and six weeks of release.”

Lin also noted that Netflix gives films the time to build an audience, something traditional theaters can’t always do.

The original deal for KPop Demon Hunters, made in 2021 during the pandemic, allowed Netflix to fund the $100 million budget and pay Sony $25 million, along with other costs. Sony also earns from soundtrack sales and music publishing, while merchandising rights belong solely to Netflix.

Sources say the film could have profit margins of 20 to 30 percent, well above the usual 10 to 12 percent studios hope for.

There’s been some debate in Hollywood about whether Sony made the right decision by letting Netflix handle the release.

One source said, “It was certainly a mistake for Sony to give it up. Sounds like this was new IP, they didn’t think it would land and was just bad luck for them.” Others argue that given the current struggles of original animated films at the box office, Netflix’s approach may have been the safest move.

Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans have hinted at a sequel, but no formal deal is in place yet. Industry insiders note that both Sony and Netflix need to agree before a sequel can move forward. “Netflix cannot make a sequel without Sony, and Sony cannot make a sequel without Netflix,” one source said.

The first film’s runaway success shows the potential of the franchise, and both studios appear eager to explore the next chapter. Netflix’s focus on keeping families and younger viewers engaged seems to have paid off, with many kids reportedly watching the film multiple times.

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