By Honorary Reporter Nasim Gerami from Iran

Netflix's hit animated musical "K-pop Demon Hunters" (2025) is a global sensation, strongly resonating with fans of Korean entertainment thanks to its high production quality, narrative and of course songs.

The work is also spreading traditional Korean culture by subtly incorporating elements like the gat (traditional hat) and norigae (tassel). The gat worn by characters in K-dramas immediately signals a connection to Korea's past, and the norigae, often worn with female Hanbok (traditional clothing), symbolizes good fortune and wealth.

The male hat gat (left) and the tassel norigae (right) add a unique visual flair to the animated musical. (Netflix)

The film also features minhwa (folk art), which is featured in the paintings "Irworobongdo," which displays a five-peaked mountain, sun and moon, and "Jakhodo," which shows a magpie and a tiger. These artistic details highlight the movie's connection to Korean folklore and traditional beliefs.

Scenes featuring Minhwa from "Kpop Demon Hunters" (Encyclopedia and Netflix)

The presence of the rival group Saja Boys was another compelling cultural detail in the film. These demonic figures are believed to guide souls to the afterlife in traditional Korean mythology.

Korean culture is also featured with cameos of popular dishes like gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), ramyeon (instant noodles) and bingsu (shaved ice dessert).

The movie also took viewers on a visual tour of Korea, showcasing historical sites and tourist attractions like N Seoul Tower and Bukchon Hanok Village.

"Kpop Demon Hunters" displays many historical and tourist sites in Korea. (Netflix and Sony Pictures)

"KPop Demon Hunters" features elements from K-pop like energetic performances, street dance and music awards. It captures the excitement of fan meetings and weekly music show appearances, along with iconic lightsticks, incorporating traits from the K-pop world.

Thus I consider this work more than an animated movie; it's a beautifully crafted cultural ambassador.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.