Netflix Inc. said KPop Demon Hunters, an animated musical about a fictional female singing group, is now the streaming service’s most-watched original film of all time.

The picture has generated 236 million views since its release on June 20, topping the 2021 action comedy Red Notice, the previous leader.

Songs from the film have also been among the most streamed online, accounting for five of the top 10 on Spotify’s most listened to list on Tuesday.

The success of Demon Hunters gives Netflix a potential new global franchise that it could tap in many ways, including sequels, merchandise and attractions. It also gives the company a stronger footing in the animation business. 

The picture has generated 236 million views since its release on June 20, topping the 2021 action comedy Red Notice, the previous leader.

Nobody expected Demon Hunters to become a worldwide sensation. The film was produced by Sony Pictures Animation, which made it for Netflix under a 2021 deal that gave the service first pick of movies it was making for streaming.

The project had a muted rollout, with a small premiere at Netflix’s Tudum theater in Los Angeles about a week before the company launched the final season of Squid Game, its most-popular series. With Netflix pouring resources into the Korean survival drama, Demon Hunters was given less prominence in the firm’s marketing push. 

Since then, the film has taken off, with memes and reaction videos going viral on social media. Netflix released a sing-along version in theatres for two days last weekend, giving the streaming service its first No. 1 film at the box office. Netflix plans to release the sing-along version online as well. Talks about a sequel are in the early stages.

Nobody expected Demon Hunters to become a worldwide sensation.

Netflix has been increasing its focus on children’s programming, a category that accounts for a rising share of viewing on the platform. YouTube creator Ms. Rachel’s preschool series drew 53 million views in the first half of 2025, while Gabby’s Dollhouse attracted 108 million views across seasons. The company has also added Sesame Street to its lineup.

Walt Disney Co., with its Bluey, Frozen and Moana juggernauts, and YouTube, which dominates preschool viewing, have long set the pace in children’s content.  

On top of its catchy songs, Demon Hunters has a number of elements and characters that young people find appealing, including the stylish ladies of the singing group Huntr/x, who double as demon hunters as they compete against a rival boy band, who also aren’t who they appear to be. – By Sohee Kim/Bloomberg