Netflix’s “KPop Demon Hunters” Sets Unprecedented Streaming Records; OST Dominates Billboard Charts

Netflix’s original animated series “KPop Demon Hunters” has continuously broken record after record in streaming history, becoming the centerpiece of the global Hallyu phenomenon. Released on June 20, the series is an action fantasy that follows the K-pop idol group HUNTR/X as they act as hidden heroes, fighting evil forces behind the dazzling stages of their performances. Although produced by Sony Pictures Animation in the United States, it has received praise for its faithful portrayal of Korean culture set in Seoul. The series has achieved remarkable success on streaming platforms. As of 50 days after its release, it has attracted 158.8 million viewers worldwide, who have spent a total of 264.6 million hours watching it, making it the fourth-most-watched Netflix film ever. It has also emerged as Netflix’s most popular original animated film and demonstrated an unprecedented “stay-power” by remaining in the top rankings for over five consecutive weeks. On August 5, it regained the number one spot on the U.S. daily chart and continued its upward trend by holding that position for four consecutive days. The series’ OST has also dominated the charts. HUNTR/X’s Title Track “Golden” has held the second place on America’s Billboard “Hot 100” chart for two straight weeks and reached as high as fourth place on the chart dated July 26, setting a new record for an animated film’s OST. Notably, “Golden” became the first song performed by a female singer to top Spotify’s U.S. daily chart. It is also the first K-pop song to reach number one on a major British official chart since Psy’s “Gangnam Style” in 2012. Another track from the series, the boy group Sazaboyz’s “Your Idol,” entered the top 10 by reaching ninth place. The song climbed from 77th place when it first appeared on the chart on July 5, surging to ninth place within just four weeks. In addition, several other songs such as “Soda Pop,” “Take Down,” and “How It’s Done” have performed well on Billboard charts. On August 4, “Golden” topped Apple Music’s real-time chart in the United States, while “Your Idol” and “Soda Pop” ranked eighth and ninth respectively. Including “Golden,” the OST has accumulated 7.742 billion streams, making it the most successful film soundtrack of 2025. This achievement surpasses Disney’s “Encanto”’s “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” and makes it the most popular film soundtrack since “Bobby.” Behind this success lies a faithful representation of Korean culture. The series seamlessly incorporates elements such as Seoul’s landscapes, Korean bathing culture, dishes like gukbap, and the history of the Joseon royal family. According to global analytics firm Parrot Analytics, “KPop Demon Hunters” reached the second-highest peak in global demand among streaming original films in 2025. In its first week of release, it experienced “exceptional demand” in 20 countries, with the highest popularity in the United States and four Asian markets making it into the top 10. Inspired by this success, Netflix is considering not only a second season but also a live-action film and a musical adaptation. The company is also pursuing exclusive trademark applications for merchandise and related products. The industry views this as a signal that streaming platform Netflix is attempting to evolve into a comprehensive cultural content company similar to Disney.