‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ directors land mega deal with Netflix after global success

The creators behind Netflix’s animated hit ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ have reportedly secured a massive deal.

According to U.S. digital media outlet PUCK News, Netflix has finalized an unprecedented mega deal with co directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, following the official confirmation of a sequel to the series.

Under the reported terms, the two directors will work exclusively with Netflix for the next five years, receiving an annual compensation of $10 million USD (approximately 15 billion KRW). The deal is said to be on par with top tier TV showrunner level contracts.

Their creative authority has also been significantly expanded. The directors will serve as consultants across the development of ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ merchandise and spin off projects, and will also receive a share of profits from merchandise and OST revenue starting from the sequel. The structure mirrors arrangements seen with creators like the Duffer Brothers of Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things,’ allowing them broader influence over the franchise’s intellectual property.

Industry reports suggest that the directors’ rising value following the success of the first installment played a key role in securing the deal. Notably, the original production did not include a sequel option, which is believed to have strengthened their negotiating position. Director Maggie Kang reportedly received multiple offers from major projects and even considered stepping away during negotiations, leading to intense discussions with Netflix.

Production company Sony Pictures Animation is also expected to benefit from the sequel. While the first installment’s rights were reportedly sold to Netflix for around $25 million USD, the sequel is said to be backed by a production budget of approximately $40 million USD, along with additional performance based bonuses and a share of future merchandise revenue.

Meanwhile, Netflix is accelerating plans to expand the ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ IP. One major initiative under consideration is a global world tour set to take place next year, with arenas of 10,000 to 20,000 seats being explored. The project is expected to involve performers such as Lee Jae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, who contributed vocals for the fictional group HUNTRIX, along with potential integration of virtual artist performance technology.

As the franchise continues to grow, attention is now focused on how far ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ will expand beyond its original success.

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