Demon Hunter has filed a trademark lawsuit against Netflix over the name of its hit animated film KPop Demon Hunters.
Filed on 18 August by Hyde Lane, the company behind the Seattle Christian metal band, the complaint names Netflix Studios and concert promoter AEG Presents. Demon Hunter alleges that the success and expansion of KPop Demon Hunters across music, merchandise, and live entertainment have created “substantial confusion” among consumers.
The band has been active for 25 years and registered the “Demon Hunter” trademark for recorded music and merchandise in 2022. It has also applied for trademark protection covering live music.
According to the lawsuit, one fan reportedly spent US$500 on tickets to a Demon Hunter concert in Albany, New York, believing they were purchasing tickets to a child-friendly KPop Demon Hunters show. The complaint also cited a television producer who mistakenly contacted the band’s management believing it was connected to the Netflix property, as well as social media users incorrectly tagging the group in posts about the film.
Demon Hunter argues that Netflix’s plans for live performances further increase the overlap between the two brands. The band is asking the court to prevent Netflix from using the KPop Demon Hunters name in connection with recorded music, live performances, and merchandise, while also seeking unspecified damages.
Netflix has separately registered “KPop Demon Hunters” as a trademark for several merchandise categories, with further applications pending.
Released in 2025, KPop Demon Hunters follows fictional K-pop trio HUNTR/X as they balance their careers as pop stars with fighting demons. The film has since become Netflix’s most-watched original title, while its soundtrack and related music have also become major hits.
The film went on to win Best Animated Film and Best Original Song for 'Golden' at both the Golden Globes and Academy Awards. A sequel has also been confirmed, while Netflix is reportedly considering further projects including a television series and stage musical.
A global KPop Demon Hunters live tour is expected to begin in 2027.
Like what you read? Show our writer some love!
-