25.08.25.Today News : ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Tops North American Box Office with Special Screenings

‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Tops North American Box Office with Special Screenings

• Netflix original animation achieves record-breaking success without official theatrical release

Netflix’s original animated film “K-Pop Demon Hunters” has taken the No. 1 spot at the North American box office, despite not being officially released in theaters, thanks to a limited sing-along screening event.

Netflix original animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters topped the North American box office.

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■ No. 1 at the North American Box Office
According to Variety, “K-Pop Demon Hunters” grossed an estimated $18–20 million over the weekend of August 23–24 through special screenings in North America. This figure surpasses Warner Bros.’ horror film Weapon, which earned $15.6 million in its third week. The fact that this success was achieved without an official theatrical release has drawn major industry attention.

■ A Global Phenomenon
Released on Netflix in June, “K-Pop Demon Hunters” was produced by Sony Pictures Animation and highlights K-pop and Korean cultural elements. The film quickly gained international popularity, with its soundtrack climbing the Billboard charts. The North American sing-along screenings allowed fans to sing, dance, and engage with the movie, creating a festival-like atmosphere.

■ Over 1,700 Theaters, Sold-Out Shows
More than 1,700 theaters across North America participated in the event, with over 1,000 showings selling out completely. Bloomberg described the outcome as a rare theatrical success for Netflix, which traditionally avoids box office-driven strategies.

■ Strategic Turning Point for Netflix
While competitors like Apple and Amazon have actively pursued hybrid theatrical releases, Netflix has remained committed to a subscriber-first streaming model. The success of “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” however, suggests that Netflix may reconsider its strategy and explore more theatrical opportunities.

■ Critical Acclaim and Cultural Impact
Film consultant David A. Gross noted, “In just 48 hours, this streaming-oriented film delivered the kind of communal experience that big-screen blockbusters often fail to achieve. Audiences were singing, dancing, and fully immersed—this is the essence of pop entertainment.” The New York Times also praised the film, noting that it is captivating both children and parents alike.

One-line summary : Netflix’s “K-Pop Demon Hunters” topped the North American box office with special screenings despite not having an official release.