Netflix Responds to Demon Hunter Trademark Lawsuit Over ‘KPop Demon Hunters’

Christian metal band Demon Hunter claims the Netflix phenomenon has created confusion around a name it has spent more than 25 years building.

Netflix has responded after being sued by Demon Hunter over the name of its hugely successful animated film, KPop Demon Hunters.

The lawsuit was filed in California on August 18 by Hyde Lane, the company behind Demon Hunter, against Netflix, Netflix Studios and concert promoter AEG Presents. It alleges trademark infringement, unfair competition and a growing likelihood of confusion between the metal band and Netflix’s franchise.

Demon Hunter have performed under the name since 2000, releasing 12 studio albums and establishing themselves as one of Christian metal’s most recognisable bands.

The dispute has intensified following plans for a KPop Demon Hunters world tour. According to the complaint, the film’s expansion into recorded music, live performances and merchandise creates an “almost complete overlap” with areas covered by Demon Hunter’s trademarks.

The band also claims its presence in online search results has been overwhelmed by the success of the film, making it more difficult for fans to find its music, merchandise and tour information.

One example included in the lawsuit involves an individual who allegedly spent around $500 on tickets to a Demon Hunter concert in Albany, New York, believing they were buying tickets connected to KPop Demon Hunters. The person reportedly later requested a refund or credit towards the film’s live show.

Netflix has rejected the allegations.

“These allegations are without merit,” the company said in a statement. “Netflix has created an Academy Award-winning global phenomenon with KPop Demon Hunters that has inspired fans around the world with its powerful music, storytelling and characters. We look forward to vigorously defending this matter.”

Demon Hunter are seeking an injunction that would prevent Netflix from using the disputed name in connection with recorded music, live performances and merchandise. The lawsuit also requests financial damages and other forms of restitution.

Released in June 2025, KPop Demon Hunters became Netflix’s most-watched film and developed into a major music franchise, with its soundtrack producing several global hits. Its success has since led to merchandise, live-event plans and a confirmed sequel.

The case will now determine whether the addition of “KPop” and the plural “Hunters” creates enough distinction from Demon Hunter’s existing trademark — or whether Netflix’s expansion into music and live entertainment has crossed into territory already occupied by the band.