Christian metal band Demon Hunter sues Netflix over KPop Demon Hunters

Christian metal band Demon Hunter has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Netflix and concert promoter AEG Presents over the streaming giant's animated hit "KPop Demon Hunters." The band, formed in Seattle in 2000, claims the franchise's expansion into music, merchandise, and live events has created consumer confusion and threatens to "eclipse" its brand Source: CNA. The lawsuit, filed Tuesday in California federal court, seeks to block Netflix from using the name in connection with music, merchandise, and live concerts, along with unspecified damages Source: CNN.

The dispute

Demon Hunter, whose corporate entity Hyde Lane trademarked "Demon Hunter" in 2014 for live performances, argues that Netflix's use of the similar mark is unlawful. The band's attorney stated, "Simply put, Netflix is no more entitled to use the mark KPOP DEMON HUNTERS than it would be to launch a recording artist, live touring show and merchandise under the marks KPOP METALLICA, KPOP U2 or KPOP BLACK SABBATH" Source: CNA. The lawsuit cites examples of confusion, including a parent who mistakenly spent nearly $500 on Demon Hunter tickets thinking they were for a "KPop Demon Hunters" show Source: CNN.

Netflix's response

Netflix has dismissed the allegations as "without merit," emphasizing the film's success: "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" Source: CNN. The film, released in June 2025, has amassed over 600 million views and its soundtrack has generated more than 15 billion streams Source: CNN.

What's next

The band's next tour is scheduled to begin October 7 in Louisville, Kentucky Source: CNN. The court will decide whether to grant an injunction against Netflix's use of the name. The case highlights the growing intersection of entertainment franchises and trademark law.