KPop Demon Hunters 2 May Leave Netflix — Sony Could Shop the Sequel or Go Theatrical
KPop Demon Hunters 2 might not arrive exclusively on Netflix, according to reporting from Puck. Sony is reportedly in early talks about a follow-up, and Netflix would not be required to take any sequel or spinoff under the original deal.
- Who’s involved: Sony, directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, and Netflix.
- Contract detail: the original Netflix deal is reported to have been capped at £20 million per film.
- Theatrical activity: KPop Demon Hunters had a two-day theatrical special event with many sold-out screenings.
- Potential outcomes: Sony could shop a sequel elsewhere or release it theatrically first.
What Puck reports
According to Puck, Sony is in negotiations with directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans about a sequel. The studio has the contractual right to create and produce any spinoff or sequel for the property. However, the original Netflix agreement does not obligate Netflix to pick up follow-ups, so Sony would be free to take a sequel elsewhere.
Why the original deal matters
Puck reports the 2021 direct-to-platform arrangement between Sony and Netflix capped payments at £20 million per film. As a result, Sony’s return from the initial KPop Demon Hunters release is reported to be roughly $20 million. That figure helped the studio avoid layoffs when the agreement was signed during a still-uncertain period for theaters amid the pandemic.
Box office and events
Despite the streaming launch, KPop Demon Hunters later played in cinemas. The film had a two-day theatrical and sing-along event in about 1,100 theaters, and Puck reports that more than 300 of those screenings sold out. Some cinemas reportedly asked Netflix to extend the run.
What this could mean for a sequel
Because Netflix has no contractual obligation to greenlight sequels or spinoffs under the original deal, Sony could legally shop a follow-up to other distributors or pursue a theatrical-first release. In short: negotiations are underway, and several clear options remain on the table.
Other facts to note
The film’s soundtrack and popularity made headlines: the fictional girl group associated with KPop Demon Hunters reached a No. 1 on Billboard’s Top 100, reportedly the first girl group to do so in 24 years. Meanwhile, Puck remains the primary source for the contract and negotiation details cited here.
