The animated musical phenomenon K-Pop Demon Hunters has taken the world by storm with its infectious 12-track soundtrack that seamlessly blends authentic K-pop production with compelling storytelling. The film’s soundtrack became the first in Billboard Hot 100 history to feature four songs in the top ten simultaneously, while reaching number one on multiple music charts worldwide. From HUNTR/X’s empowering anthems to the Saja Boys’ deceptively sweet tracks, each song serves as both a standalone hit and a crucial narrative element in this groundbreaking Netflix film.
How It’s Done
The opening track “How It’s Done” serves as the introduction to the main characters Rumi, Mira, and Zoey as the girl-group HUNTR/X. This high-energy anthem immediately establishes the group’s confident persona while showcasing their demon-hunting prowess during an airplane battle sequence. Produced by BLACKPINK’s Teddy Park, the track embodies the girl-crush sound that would feel perfectly at home on a Blackpink album. The song’s aggressive beats and empowering lyrics create the perfect sonic foundation for introducing audiences to this unique blend of K-pop stardom and supernatural action.
The production team drew inspiration from “Jet Song” from West Side Story, wanting a similar group introduction for the fictional band. The track’s lyrics emphasize themes of confidence, skill, and determination, with lines that showcase the trio’s expertise both as performers and as hunters. This dual identity becomes central to the film’s narrative, as the characters must balance their public personas with their secret mission to protect humanity from demonic threats.
Golden
“Golden” stands as the soundtrack’s crown jewel, reaching number one on the Billboard Global 200 and US Billboard Hot 100 while achieving a perfect all-kill on Korean charts. This inspirational electropop anthem represents HUNTR/X’s ultimate goal of creating the Golden Honmoon, a powerful barrier that would permanently seal away demons. Also produced by Teddy Park, the song functions as both an “I Want” song following traditional musical conventions and a legitimately great pop song. The track’s soaring melodies and hopeful lyrics capture the trio’s dreams and aspirations while hinting at the deeper mythology surrounding their demon-hunting duties.
The song explores themes of self-acceptance and finding one’s true purpose, with Rumi’s character arc particularly reflected in lyrics about hiding and finally shining. Musical elements include both English and Korean lyrics, creating an authentic K-pop experience that resonates with global audiences. The emotional weight of “Golden” becomes even more significant during the film’s climactic Idol Awards sequence, where the song nearly succeeds in summoning the protective Golden Honmoon before being dramatically interrupted.
Soda Pop
The Saja Boys’ introduction number “Soda Pop” presents itself as an innocent bubblegum pop track about attraction and sweetness. Described as similar to BTS’s “Butter,” this deceptively charming song masks the demons’ true predatory nature beneath its catchy melodies. The track was crafted by Black Label producers including KUSH, Vince, 24, Dominsuk, and Danny Chung. The song’s addictive chorus and playful lyrics about being someone’s “little soda pop” create an irresistible hook that mirrors how the demons lure unsuspecting fans.
The track has achieved massive viral success on social media platforms, with K-pop idols like Jay from ENHYPEN creating Instagram Reels and TikTok videos. Its old-school charm and infectious energy make it the perfect introduction for the Saja Boys, establishing them as seemingly innocent competitors before revealing their sinister true nature. The song’s production brilliance lies in how it maintains authentic K-pop sensibilities while serving the narrative purpose of demon manipulation.
Free
“Free” represents an emotional ballad composed by Jenna Andrews and Stephen Kirk, the songwriters behind BTS’s English-language hits “Butter” and “Permission to Dance”. This soulful duet explores Jinu and Rumi sharing their deepest secrets, serving as a musical representation of what they want to be in their lives. The song marks a pivotal moment in the narrative where two characters from opposing sides find common ground through vulnerability and honesty. The track showcases the emotional depth possible within the K-pop genre while advancing the film’s central themes of identity and belonging.
The song’s intimate production allows both characters to express their inner struggles without the bombastic energy typical of the other soundtrack entries. This quieter moment provides essential character development for both Jinu and Rumi, establishing the emotional foundation for their complex relationship. The collaboration between these accomplished songwriters ensures that “Free” maintains the high production standards expected from the soundtrack while serving its narrative purpose.
Takedown
“Takedown” functions as HUNTR/X’s aggressive diss track aimed at exposing the Saja Boys as demons at the Idol Awards. Written by German songwriter Lindgren, who previously worked on BTS’s “Boy with Luv” and TXT’s “CROWN,” the track serves as a warrior anthem expressing rage and vengeance against the Saja Boys. The song’s harsh, demon-hating lyrics create significant tension within the group, particularly affecting Rumi due to her own demonic heritage. This internal conflict drives much of the film’s emotional core, as the character struggles with the implications of performing a song that condemns part of her own identity.
The track features a special end credits version performed by TWICE members Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung, which became the centerpiece of the group’s TikTok dance challenge. The song’s aggressive hip-hop influences and dynamic production make it feel authentic to the K-pop genre while serving its narrative purpose as both a declaration of war and a source of internal conflict. The track’s ultimate irony comes when demons disguised as Mira and Zoey perform it against Rumi during the climactic Idol Awards sequence.
Your Idol
“Your Idol” introduces Gwi-Ma, the king of demons, as the Saja Boys perform this dark, otherworldly number in stark contrast to their earlier “Soda Pop.” Created by Black Label producer IDO, Theater Camp songwriter Mark Sonnenblick, and EJAE, the track serves as the villainous final song where the Saja Boys attempt to lure crowds into Gwi-Ma’s flames. The song’s hypnotic and predatory nature becomes fully apparent as the demons reveal their true intentions to harvest human souls. The track reached number one on the US Spotify chart, with the Saja Boys becoming the highest charting male K-pop group in US Spotify history, surpassing BTS.
The production seamlessly shifts from the innocuous pop of “Soda Pop” to reveal the demons’ sinister agenda through darker musical elements. Latin phrases woven throughout the lyrics add an ominous religious undertone that emphasizes the supernatural threat. The song’s success on charts demonstrates how effective villain songs can be when crafted with the same attention to detail as heroic anthems, creating memorable musical moments that serve both entertainment and narrative purposes.
What It Sounds Like
The climactic track “What It Sounds Like” represents the soundtrack’s emotional and narrative peak, beginning as a Rumi solo before expanding to include Mira, Zoey, and eventually the entire world. Composed by Jenna Andrews and Stephen Kirk, the song starts with Rumi performing alone but gradually grows to include not just her bandmates but all the people in the stadium, Seoul, and the world. The track embodies the film’s central message that music brings people together and that authentic connection is essential for survival. Through this song, people awaken from the demons’ influence and start making music together, creating an incredible roar from audiences worldwide.
The song’s progressive structure mirrors the narrative arc of the entire film, starting with individual struggle and building to collective triumph. The production allows for multiple vocal layers and instrumental arrangements that create the sensation of a growing movement. This track serves as both the film’s musical climax and its thematic resolution, demonstrating how authentic expression can overcome deception and manipulation.
Strategy
“Strategy” by TWICE plays when the trio return to their apartment for a well-earned staycation, though Rumi decides to drop their next single without warning and get them back on the road. This track was previously released as the title track of TWICE’s 14th mini album of the same name on December 6, 2024. The inclusion of this existing TWICE hit adds authenticity to the film’s K-pop world while providing familiar material for fans of the real group. The song’s placement during a moment of rest provides contrast to the more intense demon-hunting sequences while maintaining the film’s musical momentum.
The track’s incorporation demonstrates the filmmakers’ commitment to authentic K-pop representation by including actual songs from established artists. This approach helps bridge the gap between the film’s fictional universe and real K-pop culture. The song’s energetic production and catchy hooks maintain the soundtrack’s high energy even during quieter narrative moments.
Love, Maybe
“Love, Maybe” by MeloMance adds emotional depth to the soundtrack with its gentle, romantic approach. The track was originally an OST for the 2022 K-Drama Business Proposal, where Jinu’s voice actor Ahn Hyo-seop starred as the male main character. This connection creates an interesting meta-textual layer for audiences familiar with both the drama and the film. The song’s inclusion provides a softer counterpoint to the more intense action and conflict-driven tracks throughout the soundtrack.
The track’s romantic sensibilities offer a glimpse into the emotional possibilities within the film’s universe beyond the central demon-hunting conflict. MeloMance’s distinctive vocal style and the song’s gentle production create moments of reflection within the larger narrative. The cross-media connection also demonstrates the interconnected nature of Korean entertainment industries.
Path
“Path” by Jokers contributes to the soundtrack’s diverse musical landscape with its unique artistic perspective. Like “Strategy” and “Love, Maybe,” this track represents one of three previous releases included in the soundtrack. The song’s inclusion adds another layer of musical variety to the album while maintaining the K-pop authenticity that defines the entire project. The track’s placement provides additional texture to the listening experience beyond the main narrative songs.
The collaboration with Jokers demonstrates the filmmakers’ commitment to showcasing different aspects of Korean music culture. This variety helps create a more comprehensive representation of the K-pop ecosystem within the film’s universe. The song’s artistic approach offers audiences a different musical perspective while maintaining cohesion with the overall soundtrack aesthetic.
Hunter’s Mantra (Prologue)
“Prologue (Hunter’s Mantra)” was included in the deluxe version of the album released on September 5, 2025. This track serves as an introduction to the demon-hunting mythology that underlies the entire film narrative. The song establishes the historical context and spiritual significance of the HUNTR/X mission while providing musical foundation for the supernatural elements. The track’s inclusion in the deluxe edition allows for deeper exploration of the film’s mythological background.
The song’s ceremonial and mystical qualities create appropriate atmosphere for understanding the ancient traditions that HUNTR/X represents. Musical elements likely incorporate traditional Korean instruments and melodies to emphasize the cultural roots of the demon-hunting legacy. This prologue function helps audiences understand the weight and significance of the characters’ roles as protectors of humanity.
Jinu’s Lament
“Jinu’s Lament” by Andrew Choi plays as the focus shifts to the underworld and Gwi-Ma’s kingdom, laying out the challenges facing the demon king while establishing Jinu as a gifted musician and setting up his boy band plan. Like “Hunter’s Mantra,” this track was also included in the deluxe version released on September 5, 2025. The song provides crucial character development for the film’s complex antagonist while showcasing his musical talents and internal struggles.
The track’s emotional depth adds nuance to Jinu’s character beyond his role as a demon manipulator. Musical elements likely reflect both his supernatural nature and his genuine artistic abilities, creating sympathy for his situation while maintaining his threatening presence. The song’s placement helps audiences understand the complexity of characters who exist between heroic and villainous roles.
Additional Classic Tracks
The soundtrack includes classic K-pop songs as background music, featuring tracks by Seo Taiji and Boys, SUPER JUNIOR, and LEE-Paksa. These inclusions provide historical context for K-pop’s evolution while creating authentic atmosphere within the film’s Korean setting. The selection of these classic tracks demonstrates respect for K-pop’s founding artists and acknowledges the genre’s rich heritage. These songs help establish the cultural foundation upon which the film’s contemporary narrative builds.
The strategic use of established classics alongside original compositions creates a comprehensive musical experience that honors both K-pop’s past and its continued evolution. These tracks serve as cultural touchstones that ground the fantastical elements in recognizable musical territory. The inclusion of these songs also provides opportunities for multi-generational audiences to connect with familiar sounds while discovering new musical content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many songs are in the K-Pop Demon Hunters soundtrack?
The K-Pop Demon Hunters soundtrack contains 12 songs with a total duration of 37 minutes. A deluxe version was released on September 5, 2025, featuring additional tracks “Prologue (Hunter’s Mantra)” and “Jinu’s Lament,” along with sing-along, instrumental, and a cappella versions of the film’s songs. The standard soundtrack focuses on the main narrative songs while the deluxe edition provides expanded content for dedicated fans.
Which K-Pop Demon Hunter songs reached the Billboard Hot 100?
The film’s soundtrack became the first in Billboard Hot 100 history to feature four of its songs in the top ten, which include “Golden,” “Your Idol,” “Soda Pop,” and “How It’s Done”. “Golden” eventually reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and became the third song in 2025 to achieve a perfect all-kill on Korean charts. This unprecedented success demonstrates the soundtrack’s massive commercial appeal and crossover potential.
Who are the real artists behind the K-Pop Demon Hunter songs?
K-pop stars like EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI AMI, Andrew Choi, Kevin Woo, samUIL Lee, and Neckwav all contribute to the soundtrack, providing vocals for the film’s big musical moments. The soundtrack features BLACKPINK producer Teddy Park, BTS songwriters Jenna Andrews and Stephen Kirk, and German songwriter Lindgren among its production team. TWICE members Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung recorded a special version of “Takedown” that appears in the end credits.
What makes the K-Pop Demon Hunter songs authentic K-pop?
Critics noted that songs like “Takedown” wouldn’t feel out of place on a TWICE record, “How It’s Done” would be at home on a Blackpink album, and “Soda Pop” feels very much like a BTS song. The production team assembled capable composers who could rival the great K-pop hits of today, featuring authentic elements that make the songs eminently believable as real K-pop tracks you could stream in the real world. The involvement of actual K-pop producers and songwriters ensures musical authenticity throughout the soundtrack.
How successful was the K-Pop Demon Hunters soundtrack commercially?
In the United States, the soundtrack debuted at number eight on the Billboard 200 chart and holds the highest debut for soundtracks released in 2025, becoming the first soundtrack of 2025 to reach the top ten. HUNTR/X hit number two on the chart, surpassing Blackpink as the highest-charting female K-pop group, while the Saja Boys became the highest charting male K-pop group in US Spotify history, surpassing BTS. The soundtrack has racked up more than 3 billion global streams and is currently the highest-charting soundtrack of the year.