Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation’s “KPOP DEMON HUNTERS” is the latest sensation—not only for its dynamic visuals but also for its nuanced and largely authentic portrayal of Korean culture, both historical and contemporary.
The animated film succeeds where many others have struggled: presenting tradition in a modern context without distortion. In many ways, “KPOP DEMON HUNTERS” follows the path of numerous K-pop idols and creators who have long experimented with weaving traditional Korean motifs into contemporary elements, reimagining their cultural roots through a distinctly K-pop lens.
One of the most frequently cited recent examples is boy band VIXX’s “Shangri-La” (2017), known for its hanbok-inspired costumes, unmistakably Korean aesthetics, and the distinctive sound of the gayageum (12-string zither) in the song.
In “KPOP DEMON HUNTERS”, the Saja Boys, the main villains, take the stage performing Your Idol wearing modernized hanbok and gat (traditional male hats), reminding many fans of VIXX’s iconic “Shangri-La” performance, which included traditional fans in the choreography.
Several real-life idol groups mentioned by director Maggie Kang as inspirations for the fictional groups HUNTR/X and Saja Boys have also explored similar territory.
BTS, BLACKPINK, STRAY KIDS, and ATEEZ have all drawn heavily from Korean traditions at different points in their careers, through music videos, stage costumes, choreography, or songs.
BTS member SUGA’s solo single “DAECHWITA” (2020) sampled a traditional Korean military march, “daechwita,” performed by the National Gugak Center.
STRAY KIDS’ “Thunderous” (2021), meaning a traditional Korean music singer, layered traditional sounds into its chorus, and the music video was shot against the backdrop of classical Korean palace architecture.
BLACKPINK wore modernized hanbok in their 2020 hit “How you like that”, and its 2022 release “Pink venom” features the geomungo (a six-string zither) in its introduction.
However, such contemporary reinterpretations also raise questions about historical accuracy and risk misrepresenting Korean culture if not handled carefully.
For example, BLACKPINK faced criticism online for their hanbok-inspired outfits in “How you like that”. Some argued the modernized hanbok distorted the traditional dress and resembled a Japanese kimono, despite the costumes’ intricate patterns and silhouettes being rooted in classical hanbok design.
Yet, given the constant scrutiny over using such motifs in entertainment, some argue that excessive criticism could stifle the evolution of Korean culture.
“We might get stuck in an endless debate over hanbok authenticity if we remain obsessed with strict historical accuracy,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter) on June 22, referring to “KPOP DEMON HUNTERS”.
“Korean culture needs to be known first. People are asking too much.”
This message was shared over 10,000 times and received 12,800 likes as of publication.
Experts agree that “KPOP DEMON HUNTERS” strikes the right balance by integrating Korean culture respectfully while embracing creative boldness.
“What matters most is not whether cultural elements are recreated with strict historical accuracy, but whether they are incorporated with genuine understanding and nuance,” said cultural critic Jung Duk-hyun.
Lee Gyu-tag, associate professor of cultural studies at George Mason University, also emphasized the importance of bold reinterpretations to expand Korea’s global reach.
“Overseas consumers are drawn to Korean culture because of its distinctiveness, which sets it apart from dominant U.S. or global pop culture. But in Korea, that appeal is often narrowly linked only to traditional heritage aspects,” Lee explained.
He highlighted the concept of “contemporary Koreanness,” a blend of traditional elements and modern recreations, as the most effective way to resonate with a global audience.
“Excessively criticizing modern reinterpretations of Korean culture for deviating from tradition misses the point: such reinterpretations have their own unique charm and value.”
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: Netflix Capture
