Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters is turning fictional groups into real chart contenders, Huntr/x and Saja Boys are climbing the Billboard charts with hits like “Golden” and “How It’s Done.”
By Dara Clariza Evangelista
In one of the most unexpected crossovers of 2025, fictional KPop groups Huntr/x and Saja Boys from Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters are going head-to-head with real idols on the global charts, and winning fans worldwide in the process.
As of this week, Huntr/x’s power anthem “Golden” is sitting strong at #6, while “How It’s Done,” a track that channels 2NE1-level swagger and confidence, is rising fast at #29. Fans have already dubbed it the animated version of “I Am The Best” for its unapologetic energy and addictive chorus. Meanwhile, Saja Boys’ dark and hypnotic “Your Idol” is holding at #16, and the bubbly “Soda Pop” has broken into #35, fueled by TikTok dance trends and viral edits.
The KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack itself reached #2 on the Billboard 200, marking the strongest debut for an animated musical since Encanto and the highest-charting Netflix original soundtrack in recent memory.
What started as a stylized musical animation has evolved into a true cultural moment. The movie doesn’t just borrow from KPop, it understands it. From dramatic choreography to subtle nods to hanbok-inspired fashion and Korean folklore, KPop Demon Hunters is packed with real-world details that KPop fans instantly recognize and celebrate.
Huntr/x evokes the boldness of BLACKPINK and the edge of 2NE1, while Saja Boys pull visual and sonic references from the likes of BTS and EXO. But beyond imitation, both groups bring something original to the table, a fusion of fantasy, mythology, and pop precision that hits hard and feels fresh.
Behind the scenes, real music talent powers these characters. Arden Cho voices Huntr/x leader Rumi, with vocals performed by Kim Eun-jae, known as Ejae, who has worked with Red Velvet and aespa. Mira is brought to life by May Hong, with vocals by R&B artist Audrey Nuna, while Zoey’s voice is split between actress Ji-young Yoo and singer Rei Ami.
On the Saja Boys’ side, Ahn Hyo-seop plays Jinu, with vocals by Andrew Choi, a seasoned composer who has worked with NCT and Monsta X.
But for the movie, they may be animated, but the stats are real. With viral songs, social media buzz, and record-breaking numbers, KPop Demon Hunters didn’t just create a musical moment. It launched a Billboard-worthy sensation, and proved that fiction can sing just as loud as reality.
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