Exclusive Interview: Arden Cho, May Hong, and Ji-Young Yoo Discuss Netflix’s K-Pop Demon Hunters
Netflix’s upcoming animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters offers a fresh fusion of K-pop energy and Korean mythology, creating an adventurous story full of heart and style. Directed by Maggie Kang (known for The Lego Ninjago Movie and Rise of the Guardians) and Chris Appelhans (Wish Dragon, Coraline), this Sony Pictures Animation feature centers on three Korean pop idols—Rumi, Mira, and Zoey—who secretly battle demons while juggling the ups and downs of fame and friendship. The film is notable for its star-studded voice cast, dynamic soundtrack, and vibrant animation, marking a significant moment for Korean culture in mainstream animation.
Set in a colorful, stylized version of Seoul, K-Pop Demon Hunters blends ancient folklore with the neon-lit modern cityscape to explore themes like identity, pressure, and belonging. The characters are written to be powerful yet imperfect women, navigating both the fantastical and very real challenges of their world.
"It’s such an honor to be a part of a special project like this,” says Arden Cho, voice of Rumi, known for Teen Wolf and Avatar: The Last Airbender.
"This is really the first big Korean-centered animated movie, where all the leads are Korean. Obviously, we all love K-pop, and I mean—I was going to say we love slaying demons, but that’s not something that happens often!” she laughs.
"The food, the city shots—you almost feel like you’re in Seoul. It’s really fun.”
May Hong, who voices the tough and edgy Mira, adds insight into the characters’ depth:
"The directors wanted to show women who are both powerful and imperfect,” she explains.
"It really is a full expression—it’s my first voiceover role, and it was cathartic to just scream. I was even snacking during the food scenes! It feels good to be able to yell and not think about my body—it kind of disappears.”
TRENDINGCho shares a similar sentiment about bringing Rumi to life:
"I feel like Rumi is way cooler than me—but I love that I could be goofy and silly, and a bit of myself was in there too. Maggie and Chris were so supportive. Sometimes I’d say something weird off-script, and they’d say, ‘Do it like that!’ So even though Rumi is cool, she’s also a little dorky in the best way.”
For Ji-young Yoo, the voice behind the lively Zoey, the role was a chance to step back into comedy after serious roles.
"A lot of my film and TV roles have been deeply serious, so it was nice to come back to my comedy roots,” she says.
"Zoey is probably the closest to myself that I’ve played. She’s a lot more anxious and high-energy than I am, but essence-wise, we’re pretty similar."
The energy in the recording sessions was electric, with the voice actors letting loose in ways that don’t often translate to live-action work. Cho recalls,
"I like all the yelling stuff! You never get to be ridiculous on camera, so this was very freeing and fun. I’d leave the booth exhausted in the best way.” Hong agrees, noting the unique experience of voice acting:
"In a soundproof studio, screaming feels so big—it’s a really cool experience. A true void.” Yoo adds a behind-the-scenes glimpse:
"I got to ad-lib a lot! They let me say all sorts of random stuff, and I think some of it ended up in the movie.”
Of course, a K-pop inspired film wouldn’t be complete without killer music, and K-Pop Demon Hunters delivers with a soundtrack featuring original songs by TWICE, Audrey Nuna, Kevin Woo, and Broadway legend Lea Salonga. Arden Cho highlights some of her favorites:
"I love ‘Soda Pop’ (by the Saja Boys)—it’s such a vibe,” she says.
"And ‘Golden’ is such a powerful song. It’s that hero moment where we really get to shine. I feel so proud to be Korean American.” Hong shares the love for ‘Golden’ as well:
"‘Golden’ is also my favorite. It’s the anthem of us. I watched the movie so many times and it still gets stuck in my head.” Yoo teases a standout track:
"There’s a song in the middle that, without spoiling it, feels very Camp Rock meets classic Disney.”
Directors Kang and Appelhans have mentioned that BTS’s virtual concerts during the pandemic inspired some emotional parts of the movie, reflecting their deep respect for K-pop culture. Yoo comments on their approach:
"They really put in a lot of research, and it’s really beautiful,” she says.
"They’re coming to it with a lot of respect, which I think is really lovely to see.” Cho adds,
"They built this world that’s so magical and big in the way that K-pop deserves to be. And for Rumi, she goes through so much in her friendships and her identity. I think that’s something everyone watching will relate to—we’re all on our own journeys, trying to figure out who we are and if who we are is okay.”
When asked about potential solo tracks their characters might release, the cast had fun inventing titles that fit their personalities. Arden Cho imagines Rumi’s as:
"‘This Is Me,’" calling it her hero anthem. Yoo chimed in enthusiastically,
"‘Camp Rock! Let’s go!’" And Hong joked about her character’s possible songs,
"Maybe mine’s ‘I’m Gonna,’ or ‘I Will.’” Yoo imagines Zoey’s musical style too,
"Zoey’s very cute, but her rap style is hardcore. Maybe something like Nayeon’s ‘Pop’ or Jennie’s ‘Like Jennie.’ She’d have a ‘Mantra’-type track.”
At its core, K-Pop Demon Hunters is more than just flashy demon battles and pop star moments. It’s a heartfelt celebration of friendship, identity, and the power of community, anchored by an all-Korean lead cast and a killer soundtrack. The film blends mythology with modern life, offering a story packed with humor, emotion, and a spirit that fans will really connect with.
You can catch K-Pop Demon Hunters worldwide on Netflix starting June 20, 2025. Don’t miss this new animated journey that’s as much about fighting demons as it is about finding yourself.
