Doctors warn against dangerous #KPopNoodleChallenge inspired by Netflix’s KPOP DEMON HUNTERS

A viral TikTok trend inspired by Netflix’s animated hit KPop Demon Hunters has doctors warning parents to be cautious after reports of burn injuries linked to the challenge.

The #KPopNoodleChallenge, also known as #DemonHuntersRamen, encourages fans—many of them children—to recreate a scene from the film where the protagonists Rumi, Mira, and Zoey prepare instant noodles using boiling water. However, several children have suffered burns while attempting the trend at home.

Dr. Colleen Ryan, a burn specialist at Shriners Children’s Hospital in Boston, said she treats children two to three times a week for burns caused by instant noodles.

“We’re not saying kids shouldn’t participate in fun trends, but they must do it safely and with adult supervision,” Ryan explained. “A single spill can cause a deep and painful burn, resulting in a lifelong scar.”

According to the American Burn Association, children are particularly vulnerable to scald injuries due to their thinner skin and lower burn threshold. Many cases occur when kids attempt to handle hot bowls or remove them from microwaves placed out of their reach.

Despite the #KPopNoodleChallenge controversy, KPop Demon Hunters remains one of Netflix’s most popular animated originals, debuting in late June and topping global charts. Its energetic soundtrack also made waves this summer, hitting No. 1 on Billboard’s Soundtracks chart and No. 8 on the all-genre Billboard 200.

Parents and educators are now urging caution, reminding fans that while the movie celebrates teamwork and bravery, some scenes—especially involving hot food—shouldn’t be replicated in real life.

Source: KTLA