The Hidden Story Behind 'K-pop Demon Hunters,' Made by a Canadian Director
The Hidden Story Behind 'K-pop Demon Hunters,' Made by a Canadian Director
Hello, my Canadian friends! Today, I want to tell you the hidden behind-the-scenes story of the animated film, 'K-pop Demon Hunters,' which brilliantly combines K-pop with traditional Korean folklore. Director Maggie Kang, who was born in Korea and immigrated to Canada at age five, nurtured her love for Korean culture during her annual summer visits to Korea, and those experiences gave birth to the movie's unique worldview. The Meeting of K-pop and Dokkaebi: The Start of a Creative Idea When Director Maggie Kang decided it was time to create her own story, the first things that came to mind were traditional Korean monsters like the dokkaebi (goblins), grim reapers, and water spirits. She had the brilliant idea that if demon hunters were to hide their identities, idols—who are accustomed to performing behind glamorous stages—would be the perfect fit. She even developed the film's core narrative from the idea that a traditional Korean gut (shamanic ritual) might be the oldest K-pop concert. Characters Homaged to Real K-pop Groups The characters in the movie were designed by referencing real K-pop idols. The Huntresses were styled after girl groups like ITZY, BLACKPINK, and TWICE, with the goal of giving each of the three members completely distinct visuals. Fashionista Mi-ra's image was inspired by model An So-yeon, while the lovable Joy's mouth forms a heart shape when she smiles. Luni, in particular, was the longest to design and was created to embody a classic Korean beauty.
The Saja Boyz, who stand against them, were born from a combination of many boy groups like BTS, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, Stray Kids, ATEEZ, and more. Jinu, the leader, was created with the typical face of a Korean drama protagonist. A fun fact is that Director Maggie Kang decided to cast actor Ahn Hyo-seop after seeing him speak fluent English in his drama "Business Proposal." 'K-pop-ness' Perfected Through Detail 'K-pop Demon Hunters' shines not only in its grand concepts but also in small details that make Koreans nod in recognition. The movie's mascot, the tiger monster 'Duffi,' was inspired by the 19th-century Korean folk painting, 'Hojakdo.' It was a character born from the idea that since Jinu is from the past, it would be strange for him to send texts, so a tiger would deliver his letters instead. The food details are also very specific. Seolleongtang (beef bone soup) was included to symbolize comfort for Koreans, while kimchi was deliberately excluded as it felt too cliché. Other fine details were faithfully included, such as the green and white plastic dishes often seen in Korean restaurants and the habit of placing a napkin under a spoon and chopsticks.
The director collaborated with THEBLACKLABEL, home of producer Teddy, to create music that sounds genuinely like K-pop. The film's authenticity was further enhanced by the participation of many real Korean and Korean-American artists. The first meeting scene between Luni and Jinu also has a special meaning: it visually represents the Korean proverb, "Even the slightest brush of clothes is destiny."
A Story for All of Us Who Live With Anxiety and Flaws
Beyond the flashy visuals, 'K-pop Demon Hunters' conveys a deep message. Director Maggie Kang said she wanted to show through the film that "everyone lives with anxiety and flaws. While you can't completely get rid of them, you can try to acknowledge and overcome them."
This film, filled with the sincerity of a director who grew up loving Korean culture in Canada, is worth watching. Why not try to find the hidden Korean beauty and its message for yourself?
