The Ultimate “Kpop Demon Hunters” Vibe: 7 Songs That Match the Film’s Energy
- Anwaya Mane
- Jul 17
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 19
While everyone was waiting with bated breath for the final season of Squid Game, eager to see how Seong Gi-hun would turn the system on its head, bulldoze the deadly arena, and put an end to the twisted games, Kpop Demon Hunters, a quirky, romantic-fantasy animated musical with a dash of action, took everyone by surprise.
The film quickly soared to the top of Netflix’s global rankings and earned rave reviews from both critics and fans around the world. Kpop Demon Hunters tells the story of two rival K-pop groups: Huntrix, a girl group made up of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, and The Saja Boys, consisting of Jinu, Abby, Mystery, Romance, and Baby Saja. In this supernatural tale, the women are the real demon hunters, tasked with stopping The Saja Boys, who are literal demons, from unleashing chaos and destruction.
The film blends K-pop, mythology, demon lore, high-energy choreography, catchy music, and heartfelt romance to create a cinematic experience fans are loving. Its original soundtrack is already charting high on South Korea’s Melon charts and the U.S. Billboard charts, going head-to-head with real-life K-pop groups in popularity. Dark, fierce, and fantastical: We’ve curated 7 K-pop songs inspired by the Kpop Demon Hunters soundtrack that deserve a spot on your playlist now!
1. BTS – "Boy With Luv" for “Soda Pop”
When we first saw The Saja Boys performing “Soda Pop” on the street in front of a crowd of adoring fangirls, we were instantly reminded of BTS’s most infectious bubblegum-pop hits, particularly “Dynamite” and “Boy With Luv", with the latter being the closer match. Both tracks share a breezy, feel-good vibe, with catchy beats, an addictive hook, and vibrant choreography that’s hard to resist. It’s refreshing and empowering to see two wildly popular boy groups challenge traditional ideas of masculinity by embracing pastels, playful aesthetics, and joyful summer-pop anthems without losing their cool.
2. BLACKPINK – "Shut Down" for “Take Down”
Beyond the similar-sounding titles, BLACKPINK’s “Shut Down” from their Born Pink album perfectly mirrors the fierce girl-crush energy of Huntrix’s “Take Down". Both are groovy, hip-hop-infused tracks with a strong dance-trap backbone and unapologetic swagger. “Shut Down” is about reclaiming power, silencing critics, and confidently owning your space, and that’s exactly what Huntrix does in “Take Down.” With powerhouse vocals from TWICE’s Jihyo, Jeongyeon, and Chaeyoung bringing intensity and bold charisma, the song becomes an anthem for self-assurance and dominance.
3. EXO – "Obsession" for “Your Idol”
In an interview with Forbes, the music team behind Kpop Demon Hunters revealed that EXO was a major influence while crafting the darker, more intense tracks for the film’s soundtrack, especially “Your Idol". With its gritty production, hypnotic beats, and edgy concept, EXO’s “Obsession” mirrors the same shadowy allure that defines the Saja Boys’ goth-inspired live performance of “Your Idol". The combination of horror aesthetics, raw intensity, and seductive stage presence creates a moment that blurs the line between menace and magnetism. It's a bold K-pop power move and one that pays clear homage to EXO’s darker sonic legacy.
4. i-dle – "Nxde" for “How It’s Done”
Fiercely individualistic, unapologetically authentic, and bursting with talent and charisma, i-dle and Huntrix are clearly cut from the same cloth. Both “Nxde” and “How It’s Done” deliver powerful feminist messages about owning your truth and standing your ground, no matter the opposition. While the two songs don’t share a similar sound, they radiate a comparable aura and branding—bold, confident, and unapologetically strong. That’s how it’s really done. Make notes, folks!
5. IVE – "I AM" for “Golden”
When fans first heard “Golden", many were quick to point out its similarities to IVE’s “I AM” (just take a look at the YouTube comments for proof!). Both tracks feature a dynamic fast-slow tempo, flowing vocals, infectious hooks, and vibrant dance-pop vibes that make them instant radio hits, streaming favorites, and fan faves. Bold and confident, “Golden” makes a powerful musical statement: we’re officially in the golden era of girl groups. As the lyrics proudly declare, “It’s our moment / You know together we’re glowing / Gonna be, gonna be golden.”
6. "Starlight" by Taeyeon feat. DEAN for “Free”
While Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon may not be a big fan of Kpop Demon Hunters herself, her collaboration track “Starlight” featuring DEAN is a perfect match for Jinu and Rumi’s love song, “Free". Built on a foundation of calming melodies and accentuated by beautiful, soothing vocals, both “Starlight” and “Free” are ideal slow, romantic songs to have on your playlist. Despite being nearly a decade old, “Starlight” feels like the musical sister to Jinu and Rumi’s heartfelt swan song, “Free". P.S. Ahn Hyo-seop, who voices Jinu, revealed that “Free” is his personal favorite track from the movie.
7. DREAMCATCHER – "Vision" for “What It Sounds Like”
Both DREAMCATCHER’s “Vision” and Kpop Demon Hunters’ “What It Sounds Like” are powerful blends of dark techno, electronic elements, and classic K-pop structure, elevated by fantasy-driven visuals and bold, cinematic storytelling. These tracks aren't just songs; they're immersive experiences. With high-concept aesthetics, sleek production, and striking choreography, both music videos leave a lasting impression, mixing sci-fi energy with emotional intensity. At their core, “Vision” and “What It Sounds Like” share a powerful message: sometimes, you have to take control of your own destiny, because your fate is truly in your hands.
K-pop Demon Hunters is now streaming on Netflix, and all the songs mentioned are available on major streaming platforms, including Spotify, YouTube Music, and Apple Music.
#KpopDemonHunters #DREAMCATCHER #BTS #BLACKPINK #EXO #IVE #GirlsGenerationTaeyeon #IDLE #Huntrix #TheSajaBoys #Jinu #Rumi #Kpop
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