K-pop fans are up in arms over the delay in the release of the Kpop Demon Hunters sequel, with some fearing it could spell the end of the franchise. The animated musical was a massive hit in 2025, but a new report suggests the next installment might not be ready until 2030 or later.
The delay is due to the directors, Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, being preoccupied with the first film's Oscar campaign. Kristine Belson, the current president of Sony Pictures Animation, explained that the team is busy with the awards circuit, which is understandable given the film's success.
However, some fans are not happy with the wait, expressing concerns that the sequel might not live up to the original. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) called it a 'generational fumble', suggesting that the current generation of fans will have moved on by the time the sequel arrives.
Another fan echoed this sentiment, stating that the kids obsessed with the film today will have moved on to something else by the time the sequel is released. A third fan emphasized the importance of a timely release, warning that waiting too long could harm the brand's reputation.
Some fans, however, have a more pragmatic view. They argue that animated films take years to develop and that the creators need time to ensure the sequel meets the high standards of the first film. One fan suggested that a longer wait for a masterpiece is preferable to a rushed, cash-grab sequel.
Another fan commented that if the sequel is half as good as the first, the extra time is justified. They also pointed out the complexity of creating an animated movie, emphasizing that it requires significant time and resources, regardless of the final product's quality. Most standard animated sequels take a minimum of 4-5 years to complete.
Kpop Demon Hunters has already set records, becoming the most-watched original title in Netflix history and the most-streamed film in the U.S. in 2025. The film's soundtrack was also a hit, with four songs in the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100 simultaneously, and the single 'Golden' by the fictional girl group Huntrix topped the charts. The film is now nominated for multiple Academy Awards, including Best Original Song and Best Animated Feature.
Despite the delay, the franchise's success and the creators' dedication to quality suggest that the Kpop Demon Hunters sequel will be worth the wait, even if it means fans will have to be patient for a few more years.
