The fictional boy band Saja Boys from the Netflix animated film KPop Demon Hunters has taken the music charts by storm with their haunting track “Your Idol.” The song, which blends eerie themes with addictive pop beats, was directly inspired by two iconic songs from the legendary K-pop group EXO—“MAMA” and “Obsession.”
How EXO’s Music Shaped “Your Idol”
The film’s music team, including producers from THEBLACKLABEL, crafted “Your Idol” to reflect the dark, cinematic energy of EXO’s most dramatic tracks. Songwriter EJAE, who also voices the lead character Rumi in the film, revealed that the instrumental already had an EXO-like vibe when she first heard it.
“When I got the instrumental from THEBLACKLABEL and executive music producer Ian Eisendrath, the EXO influence was already there. So I leaned into it, writing lyrics that twisted the idea of idol-fan obsession. The Saja Boys, as demons, feed on fans’ adoration—it’s a metaphor for how extreme fandom can feel. Growing up Christian, I thought about how ‘idolizing’ something is considered a sin. That tension inspired the creepy lyrics: ‘I’ll be your Idol.’”
The song’s chilling lyrics and layered production make it a standout track, mirroring the film’s themes of manipulation and the darker side of fame.
The Making of a Demon Anthem
“Your Idol” plays during a major scene where the Saja Boys reveal their true demonic forms. The song’s dark energy matches their transformation, blending K-pop spectacle with horror-inspired visuals. The track has since climbed music charts, debuting at No. 77 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a fan favorite.
The film’s directors, Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, wanted the music to feel authentic to K-pop while serving the story. They worked with top producers, including Teddy Park (known for his work with BLACKPINK) and Lindgren (a BTS collaborator), to ensure the songs had real chart potential.
“We needed the Saja Boys to sound like a real K-pop group but with a sinister twist,” said Kang. “Their music had to lure fans in, just like demons luring souls.”
Why EXO’s Influence Matters
EXO’s “MAMA” and “Obsession” are known for their dramatic, almost gothic sound—perfect for a demonic boy band. Both songs feature haunting choirs, intense beats, and lyrics about control and obsession, making them ideal references for “Your Idol.”
Fans have noticed the similarities, with many praising the track for capturing EXO’s signature dark vibe while adding a fresh twist.
“The moment I heard ‘Your Idol,’ I thought of EXO’s ‘MAMA’—it has that same epic, eerie energy,” one fan tweeted. “It’s like if EXO went full villain mode, and I’m here for it.”
The Success of KPop Demon Hunters’ Music
The KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack has become a global hit, with “Your Idol” and HUNTR/X’s “Golden” both charting on Spotify and Billboard. The film’s music blends K-pop’s high-energy production with storytelling, making it more than just background tracks—they drive the plot.
Also read: 5 Biggest Unanswered Questions From Netflix’s Hit Movie KPop Demon Hunters
With 33 million views on Netflix in just two weeks, the film has introduced a new wave of fans to K-pop’s darker, more theatrical side. And thanks to EXO’s influence, “Your Idol” stands out as one of the most memorable songs in the movie.
Source: Forbes
