Great news for K-pop Demon Hunters fans, Netflix's record-setting success is confirmed for a sequel. However, it won't be coming any time soon, as the sequel is set to launch in 2029. Earlier this year, the original movie set the record as Netflix’s most-streamed film, attracting an impressive 236 million views globally. As reported by Bloomberg, Netflix and Sony have officially completed an agreement for an additional K-pop Demon Hunters film, with a scheduled release in 2029, according to Variety.
Animated movies typically require extended production schedules, which is why there is a four-year interval between releases. Regardless, the launch date may vary based on the speed of development. Bloomberg also noted that Netflix's deal involves the original filmmakers, Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, as well as Sony Corp, which was behind the production of the first film. Because of the complex nature of animation, it will take a few years for the sequel to be ready for streaming.
The original K-Pop Demon Hunters was a fantasy journey featuring a made-up K-pop girl group that shields the world from demons using their music. Created by Sony Pictures Animation, the film turned into such a sensation that Netflix, although recognized for skipping theatrical releases, released a special sing-along edition in theatres for fan events conducted in August and October.
Speaking to Variety, director Maggie Kang said, “We’ve set up so much for potential backstory. Obviously, there are a lot of questions that are left unanswered and areas that are not explored. We had to do that because there’s only so much movie you could tell in 85 minutes.” In a different interview, co-director Chris Appelhans revealed that the backstories of the HUNTR/X members were missed from the initial film, suggesting that the next sequel might dive into those unexplored narratives.