SEOUL — It is not official yet, but the buzz is growing. After Netflix’s animated feature KPop Demon Hunters shattered records to become the platform’s most watched title ever, talk of a sequel is spreading rapidly online.

The film, released on July 20, has already dethroned Red Notice (2021) and even surpassed Squid Game to take the crown as Netflix’s most viewed title in history. While Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation are said to be in early talks about a follow-up, no concrete deal has been reached.

Directors and Cast Hint at Continuation
Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans have repeatedly teased the idea of a sequel, saying that much of the characters’ backstories — especially Zoey and Mira — remain untold. “Nothing has been decided officially,” Kang said in Seoul last month, “but we have a lot left to share.”

Voice actors have also fueled excitement. Yoo Ji-young, who played Zoey, revealed she had already discussed sequel ideas with the directors, while Arden Cho, who voiced Rumi, told Variety she would love to see the character Jinu return, despite his apparent death in the first film.

Expanding the World — and the Music
If a sequel goes forward, it could bring richer narratives and more traditional Korean influences. Kang, inspired by her recent visit to the National Museum of Korea, suggested that artifacts like the moon jar may shape new storylines. She also hinted at broadening the soundtrack beyond idol pop to include trot, heavy metal, and other Korean musical genres.

The fate of Jinu, leader of the villainous Saja Boys, remains a hot topic among fans. Theories suggest his spirit may live on inside Rumi’s sword, keeping the door open for his return. Kang has kept intentionally vague, adding, “Doesn’t Korean content often enjoy tragedy?”

Behind-the-Scenes Questions
While Kang and Appelhans are expected to return if the sequel is made, there is uncertainty about the visual direction following the departure of art director Celine Kim from Sony Pictures Animation. Still, her current work with Netflix leaves open the possibility of her involvement should the project shift studios.

Given that the first film took seven years to bring to the screen, a sequel may still be years away. But fans of HUNTR/X are already eager for another adventure — and another soundtrack to match.

Sayart / Kang In sig insig6622@naver.com