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Netflix Turns Its Biggest Film Hit Into a Theater Event

A clapperboard labeled "Hollywood Production" rests on a red fabric background. Scattered around the clapperboard are numerous pieces of popcorn. At the bottom of the image, part of a film reel is visible, while at the top, there's a strip of film. To the right, there's a red-and-white striped popcorn container. The scene is photographed from above, showcasing various cinema and film props.
According to Netflix, "KPop Demon Hunters 2" is expected to focus much more on theatrical release than the first film. Photo: Getty Images
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October 2, 2026, 4:53 pm | Read time: 2 minutes

One of the most successful films in Netflix history is getting a sequel. The surprise lies mainly in how the streaming service plans to release the follow-up to “KPop Demon Hunters.”

“KPop Demon Hunters” became an extraordinary success for Netflix after its release. The animated film about K-Pop stars Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, who also work as demon hunters, became the streaming service’s most successful film in 2025. Several songs from the film also became viral hits.

Three animated figures stand side by side on a lit stage against a blue-violet background with numerous light points. The figure on the left holds a glowing, crystal-like object and wears a blue-yellow outfit. The middle figure has long violet hair, a yellow jacket, and holds a glowing sword. The figure on the right wears a dark top, an orange skirt, and high boots, holding a large, curved weapon over the shoulder. Several light effects and colored beams are visible in the background.
The main characters Zoey, Rumi, and Mira are at the center of the successful Netflix animated film

It is now confirmed that the story will continue. Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation are officially working on “KPop Demon Hunters 2.” Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans are set to return as directors and screenwriters. However, specific plot details are not yet available.

This time it’s headed to theaters

The more exciting question right now is about the release. Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos announced at an industry event that fans can expect a very wide theatrical release for “KPop Demon Hunters 2.” This would take a different path than the first film, which was released directly on streaming.

According to Deadline, Netflix may also be considering the experiences with special theatrical screenings of the first film. These showed that the brand attracts significant interest not only on home couches but also on the big screen. The company seems convinced that a theatrical release and a later streaming release are not mutually exclusive.

Netflix experiments with new models

The plans for “KPop Demon Hunters 2” align with a broader development at Netflix. According to Sarandos, the company is currently experimenting with different forms of theatrical distribution. Depending on the film and target audience, release strategies will be more flexible in the future.

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Whether the sequel will actually be released in 2029 remains uncertain. Although this date has been mentioned several times recently, it has not yet been officially confirmed. What is clear, however, is the importance Netflix places on the project: The sequel to a streaming hit is apparently intended to become a true cinematic event.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TECHBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@techbook.de.

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