A Discussion with the Directors of KPOP DEMON HUNTERS Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans

In this exclusive CalArts panel, Character Animation graduates sit down with the visionary directors of the record-breaking animated film, KPOP DEMON HUNTERS, Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans!

The panel was held in the Bijou Theater on Sept. 12, 2025, with a packed-house of animation students, and the conversation was led by 2025 graduates Asher Borison, Anya Butler, and Rita Chen.

Kang and Appelhans discuss the incredible seven-year journey to bring this project to life. Kang shares that her drive and inspiration was to create a film that reflected her own upbringing, “an animated project that celebrates Korean culture.”

Appelhans reveals how his partnership with Kang on the film was kismet, as both agreed that “comedy could be used in a way to hide deeper storytelling.” The two lauded the other and instilled in students the paramount importance of having a trusted creative partner, especially on such a high-scale project.

The film follows Huntr/x, a Kpop girl group, who secretly fight demons in their spare time. The film's wild success is undeniable, currently sitting at more than 314 million views on Netflix, with numbers still climbing.

This conversation is a must-watch for animation fans, aspiring filmmakers, and anyone inspired by the power of cultural storytelling.

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