The director of KPop Demon Hunters recently revealed that JY Park, the founder of JYP Entertainment, was the first choice to voice the villain Gwi Ma before Lee Byung Hun took the role.
The animated film KPop Demon Hunters has become a global hit since its release on Netflix in June 2025. The movie follows a K-pop girl group who secretly fight demons while managing their idol careers. One of the most talked-about characters is Gwi Ma, the demon king, voiced by Lee Byung Hun of Squid Game fame. However, director Maggie Kang recently shared that the role was initially meant for a real-life K-pop legend.
JY Park Was Considered for Gwi Ma Due to His Stage Presence
In an interview with Cosmopolitan Korea, Maggie Kang explained that the original concept for Gwi Ma was very different. The team first imagined the villain as a “wannabe idol” who craved fame and attention. Because of this, they thought of JY Park, the founder of JYP Entertainment and a well-known performer himself.
“When we first started casting, we had an idea of Gwi Ma being a wannabe idol himself. So we thought of JY Park. However, later the vibe of Gwi Ma changed to a more traditional villain, so Lee Byung-hun was cast.”
JY Park is famous for his flamboyant performances and theatrical style, making him a perfect fit for a villain who wanted to be a star. However, as the story evolved, Gwi Ma became a darker, more menacing figure. This shift led the team to cast Lee Byung Hun, whose deep voice and commanding presence suited the final version of the character.
Why Lee Byung Hun Was the Right Choice for the Final Version
Lee Byung Hun brought a powerful intensity to Gwi Ma, making him a truly intimidating villain. His performance added weight to the character, which matched the film’s darker tone.
“Lee Byung Hun brought a level of weight and intensity to the character that perfectly suited the film’s final vision.”
Fans have praised Lee’s voice acting, with many calling Gwi Ma one of the most memorable parts of the movie. The change in casting ultimately worked in the film’s favor, as Lee’s performance helped solidify Gwi Ma as a fearsome antagonist.
KPop Demon Hunters Continues to Break Records
Since its release, KPop Demon Hunters has dominated Netflix’s Top 10 in multiple countries. The film’s unique mix of K-pop, action, and fantasy has attracted a wide audience. The soundtrack, featuring original songs inspired by real K-pop hits, has also been a major success, topping music charts worldwide.
The movie’s voice cast includes Arden Cho, Ahn Hyo-seop, May Hong, and Ji-young Yoo as the main characters. The blend of animation, music, and Korean mythology has made it stand out among other animated films.
Fans React to the Original Casting Choice
Many fans were surprised to learn that JY Park was almost the voice of Gwi Ma. Some think it would have been fun to see him play a villain, while others believe Lee Byung Hun was the perfect choice.
“JY Park as a demon king? That would’ve been iconic! But Lee Byung Hun killed it.”
“I can’t imagine anyone else as Gwi Ma now. Lee Byung Hun’s voice is just too powerful.”
Despite the change, the film’s success proves that the final decision worked well. The mix of K-pop culture, demon-slaying action, and deep themes of identity and acceptance has resonated with audiences globally.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights on the Film’s Creation
Director Maggie Kang has shared more about the making of KPop Demon Hunters, including how the characters were inspired by real K-pop groups. The three main girls of HUNTR/X were influenced by groups like BLACKPINK, ITZY, and TWICE, while the rival boy band Saja Boys took cues from BTS, TXT, and Stray Kids.
The film took nine years to complete, from early concept art to final animation. Kang wanted to create a story that celebrated Korean culture while also appealing to a global audience. The result is a visually stunning movie with a strong emotional core.
The Future of KPop Demon Hunters
With the film’s massive success, fans are already hoping for a sequel or spin-off. While nothing has been confirmed, the creative team has hinted at more stories set in this world.
For now, KPop Demon Hunters remains one of the most talked-about animated films of 2025, thanks to its unique concept, star-studded cast, and unforgettable villain.
Credits: Netflix Korea, Cosmopolitan Korea, Forbes
