KPOP DEMON HUNTERS 2 reportedly in the works as Sony and Netflix negotiate sequel plans

Netflix’s surprise smash hit KPop Demon Hunters may soon be getting a sequel.

According to a report from Puck, Sony Pictures Animation is currently in negotiations with directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans to develop KPop Demon Hunters 2.

The original film, which follows fictional girl group HUNTR/X as they balance arena tours with demon slaying, has become one of Netflix’s biggest animated successes. Not only has it dominated global streaming charts, but it also made music history when HUNTR/X became the first girl group in 24 years to score a No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100.

Despite its success, the future of the franchise comes with complications. While Sony produced and developed KPop Demon Hunters, Netflix controls its distribution rights. That means any sequel would almost certainly be a Netflix exclusive, even if Sony might prefer exploring theatrical options after seeing how popular the film has become in cinemas.

Netflix launched a two-day theatrical run of KPop Demon Hunters across 1,100 theaters worldwide, complete with sing-along screenings. Over 300 showings sold out in advance, and theater chains reportedly pushed for an extended run. Still, Sony earned little from the box office, since its original 2021 deal with Netflix capped studio earnings at around $20 million per film.

During an uncertain pandemic era, the deal made sense, but with KPop Demon Hunters now a global hit and theaters eager for more, Sony may want greater flexibility for the sequel. For now, though, Netflix holds the cards.

Whether or not KPop Demon Hunters 2 reaches theaters before streaming, the franchise is already positioned as one of Netflix’s most successful original films ever.

Source: Polygon