Netflix’s animated film KPop Demon Hunters has taken the world by storm since its release on June 20, 2025. The directors, Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, recently confirmed that global superstars BTS and their hit song “Dynamite” were major inspirations behind the movie. Fans are thrilled to see the group’s influence recognized in this unique blend of K-pop and supernatural action.
The directors shared that the idea for the film came during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when people felt isolated. BTS’s 2020 online concert, where millions sang along to “Dynamite”, gave them hope. The song’s message of joy and unity became the foundation for the film’s themes.
It's been revealed that 'Kpop Demon Hunters' is inspired by BTS and their hit single DYNAMITE which brought a lot of comfort to everyone during the pandemic !!! pic.twitter.com/ANYEaRSMCP
“We were all isolated and had difficulty connecting with each other. Then BTS held an online concert, and millions of people around the world (including us) suddenly started singing and dancing to ‘Dynamite’ from their own homes. For a moment, the world felt a little brighter.” — Chris Appelhans
The film follows Huntrix, a K-pop girl group who secretly fight demons while maintaining their idol careers. Their rivals, The Saja Boys, are demons disguised as a popular boy band. The mix of music, action, and Korean folklore has resonated with audiences worldwide.
Fans quickly noticed the BTS influence, especially in the film’s themes of hope and unity. Many took to social media to express their excitement.
“This is what Dynamite did, not only on charts but become a comfort vibing song when we all were restricted to our homes. It was like a relief in the testing times.” — Fan on X
“Dynamite is not just a song, it’s also a form of hope for so many people. Uplifting. Changes lives.” — Another fan
The directors wanted to capture the same energy BTS brought during the pandemic. They aimed to create a film that was fun, trendy, and full of bold action while also delivering a deeper message.
“We wanted to make a film that is full of fun, trends, and bold action that you would expect from a film like KPop Demon Hunters. At the same time, we wanted to capture that moment and feeling when one really great song captures people’s hearts and nullifies all discrimination and darkness in the world, and even the demons within us.” — Chris Appelhans
Chris Appelhans, the creator of the viral Netflix show "K-Pop Demon Hunters," revealed how BTS inspired the project.
During the COVID pandemic, Appelhans and Maggie began planning the film amidst global isolation. BTS's online concert, where millions sang and danced to… pic.twitter.com/RfrAeMok0f
The film’s success has been overwhelming, ranking No. 1 in 26 regions on Netflix. Critics have praised its animation, music, and heartfelt storytelling. The soundtrack, featuring original K-pop songs, has also gained attention for its catchy beats and emotional depth.
BTS fans, known as ARMY, are celebrating the recognition of the group’s impact. Many pointed out how “Dynamite” was more than just a chart-topping hit—it was a source of light during dark times.
“We have seen so many people use BTS’ image as their muse, but it’s even better to see their message and the joy they bring to the world be the one to inspire here.” — Fan reaction
“This is what BTS intended for Dynamite to be during the pandemic, a song that everyone can enjoy and give them strength through a really hard time.” — X user
The film’s connection to BTS adds another layer of appreciation for fans. The directors hope viewers feel the same joy and inspiration they felt when watching BTS’s concert.
Beyond BTS, the film also draws from other K-pop influences. The Saja Boys were inspired by groups like TXT, Stray Kids, ATEEZ, BIGBANG, and Monsta X. Each member represents classic K-pop archetypes, from the romantic lead to the playful youngest member.
The Huntrix members—Rumi, Mira, and Zoey—were modeled after real-life K-pop idols and models. Mira’s design was influenced by Korean model Ahn So Yeon, while Zoey embodies the cute, youthful energy seen in many girl groups.
The film’s unique mix of K-pop and fantasy has made it a standout hit. Fans of both animation and K-pop are praising its creativity and emotional depth.
With its success, talks of a potential sequel are already emerging. The directors have hinted at more stories to explore in this universe.
For now, fans are enjoying the film’s tribute to BTS and the power of music. The directors’ acknowledgment of “Dynamite“ and BTS’s 2020 concert has made the movie even more special for ARMY and K-pop lovers worldwide.
We use cookies to enhance your experience. By consenting, you allow us to process data like Browse behavior and unique IDs. Declining may affect some site features.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
