The creator of Netflix's hit animated film KPop Demon Hunters has shared an update indicating a lengthy wait for its sequel. Director Maggie Chang discussed the project's timeline in a recent interview, noting the time-intensive nature of animation production. The original film continues its success with Oscar nominations ahead.
Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters, described as the streaming service's biggest animated movie of all time, is poised for a sequel, but fans face a significant delay. In an interview with Bloomberg, co-creator, director, and screenwriter Maggie Chang revealed that production on KPop Demon Hunters 2 is not imminent. Reports suggest a potential release in 2029, emphasizing the extended timeline required for animation.
Chang addressed the anticipation surrounding the follow-up to the story of supernatural idol group members Rumi, Mira, and Zoey. She stated, “I can’t really say that officially, but I would say…in a world that loves sequels, I don’t think it’s a surprise that something else could be coming. It’s going to be a long wait for anything because, unfortunately, animation just takes a long time. Although this awards run has been amazing and fun, I just can’t wait to dive right back into another movie and to figure something out, you know, for the world to share. I’m sure that’s what a lot of people hope.”
Despite the sequel's distant horizon, the Sony Pictures film enjoys ongoing momentum. It has secured nominations at the Academy Awards on March 15 for Best Animated Feature and for the song “Golden” in the Best Original Song category. It competes against films including Zootopia 2, Elio, and Arco.
Netflix views KPop Demon Hunters as its equivalent to Frozen, with internal discussions about expanding the franchise through a live-action adaptation, an animated television series, and a worldwide tour. Details on these projects remain unrevealed. Last year, amid the film's success, Chang had hinted at future possibilities, saying, “There’s definitely more we can do with these characters in this world. Whatever it will be, it will be a story that deserves to be a sequel, and it will be something that we want to see.”
