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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Music and Concerts devider 'KPop Demon Hunters' sparks real-life battle with metal band Demon Hunter

'KPop Demon Hunters' sparks real-life battle with metal band Demon Hunter

Published Aug 22, 2026 02:28 pm

An odd case of two very different kinds of demon hunters has emerged.

Christian heavy metal band Demon Hunter is taking Netflix to court, in what is shaping up to be a rather unexpected clash over the blockbuster animated film “KPop Demon Hunters.”

The band’s parent company, Hyde Lane, filed a lawsuit Tuesday against Netflix, Netflix Studios, and concert promoter AEG Presents in the US District Court for the Central District of California, claiming the title has caused confusion among fans and consumers.

According to the complaint, the band has been using the “Demon Hunter” name for about 25 years, releasing music, touring, and selling merchandise to a dedicated following.

The group alleges that Netflix’s use of the “KPop Demon Hunters” name has increasingly overlapped with its own music and live entertainment businesses, particularly after the streamer announced plans for a global concert tour based on the animated hit.

The lawsuit cites several instances of alleged consumer confusion.

In one case, a customer reportedly spent nearly $500 on top-tier tickets to a Demon Hunter concert in Albany, New York, believing they were purchasing tickets for a “KPop Demon Hunters” show to attend with his young daughters.

The customer later contacted the band’s representatives to ask whether the tickets could be refunded or credited so he could purchase tickets to what he believed was the actual K-pop themed event.

The complaint also alleges that a television producer mistakenly contacted Demon Hunter’s management seeking an interview with a songwriter associated with “KPop Demon Hunters.”

Social media users have also reportedly and allegedly tagged or mentioned the metal band in posts concerning the animated film.

“KPop Demon Hunters”, which debuted on Netflix in June 2025, has reportedly amassed more than 600 million views, making it the streamer’s most popular original title. Its soundtrack has also generated more than 15 billion streams worldwide.

Demon Hunter is asking the court to prevent Netflix and its partners from using the “KPop Demon Hunters” name in connection with recorded music, live performances, and merchandise. The band is also seeking unspecified damages and a jury trial.

The group’s corporate entity registered the “Demon Hunter” trademark for recorded music and merchandise in 2022 and has also sought trademark protection related to live performances.

Netflix, meanwhile, has registered “KPop Demon Hunters” for several merchandise categories, with additional applications pending.

Netflix has commented on the lawsuit, rejecting the allegations.

“These allegations are without merit,” a company spokesperson said, adding that Netflix created an Academy Award-winning global phenomenon with “KPop Demon Hunters” that has inspired audiences through its music, story, and characters.

The legal dispute comes as “KPop Demon Hunters” continues to expand beyond its original animated film.

Netflix has announced a world concert tour with AEG Presents for 2027, while a sequel has also been confirmed.

Related Tags

KPOP KPop Demon Hunters lawsuit Demon Hunters
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