It’s funny. It’s cute. It’s set in the neon-drenched streets of Seoul. It has more catchy songs than a worship playlist on shuffle. So it’s no surprise KPop Demon Hunters is now the most-watched Netflix film of all time.
But behind the bright animation and toe-tapping tunes lies something deeper and a little darker. The plot revolves around an evil spiritual underworld that is trying to invade ours. As Christians, we might find ourselves asking: Should we be watching this at all?
The reality is, many young people already have. Twice. Which gives us an opportunity, not to panic, but to start important conversations about the spiritual world. While there are many ways in which the story of the film differs from our understanding of Jesus’s victory over Satan it also contains themes that can help point us to biblical truths.
Here’s how you can use it to help your young people see that demon hunting isn’t just a Netflix fantasy, it’s part of the Christian life.
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The armour of God
In the film, demons are everywhere because their leader, Gwima, can’t be. Instead he sends them out to do his work. They prey on people who are unaware of their influence, but are defeated by those who recognise and resist them.
Sound familiar?
Ephesians 6:10–20 reminds us that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces. Thankfully, God gives us everything we need: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith and yes, even spiritual shoes.
Why not study this passage with your youth group? Create art, spoken word, or even “Armour of God” fashion sketches to make it memorable. The point is: God’s protection isn’t just metaphorical, it’s practical.
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Living in unity
A key theme in the film is that victory comes through unity. The characters can’t defeat darkness if they’re divided or stuck in past hurts.
Scripture calls believers to live in unity so that the world may know Jesus (John 17:23). Let’s model this for the young people we know. Are there divisions in your local community? You could spend time with your young people praying about this and ask God to show you some simple ways that you can demonstrate love and forgiveness together. If you’re part of a youth group, join with other churches for worship nights or socials. Nothing builds unity faster than shared snacks and awkward group games. Just saying.
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Recognising negative thoughts and lies
In the film, people under Gwima’s control have strange patterns on their skin and hear constant lies whispered in their ears. It’s dramatic, but it’s not far from reality.
Many young people live with shame, fear, and anxiety because they believe lies about who they are. The enemy’s goal is to isolate and accuse. But God’s Word speaks a better identity over them.
Romans 12:2 reminds us that we are transformed by the renewing of our minds. Create a safe space and consider sharing personal testimonies to help young people reflect on recurring negative thoughts. Then work together to find Scriptures that contradict these lies with truth. Use journaling, postcard art, or music playlists to remind them who God says they are. You could use the theme of patterns from the film as the starting point for your creations.
And keep your eyes peeled for a future article on this blog about creating healthy environments for girls.
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Focus on the cross
Kpop Demon Hunters might have high-energy fight scenes and a dramatic dance battle finale, but Jesus’ victory on the cross is the real climax. His love casts out fear, his blood brings freedom, and his resurrection defeats evil for good.
Young people don’t need to fear darkness, not because they’re strong, but because Jesus is victorious. The cross may not be flashy, but it is final.
Help them remember this by regularly taking communion together. Share testimonies of how Jesus has set you free. Equip them with simple tools like 15-second testimonies or the Three Circles method so they can share their faith with others.
Final thoughts: Demon hunting isn’t just for Netflix
So yes, Kpop Demon Hunters is fun, colourful, and the songs are hard to get out of your head. But it also cracks open the door to deeper questions about good, evil, and spiritual truth. You don’t need to throw out the film night, you just need to follow it up with a faith-filled conversation.
Let’s use this cultural moment to help young people see that spiritual battles are real but so is the power of Jesus. The enemy might have some scary CGI, but our King has already won.
Resources
🎤 Spoken Word: Armor of God (Church Rise Up)
💬 Testimony tool: Who’s Your One Training – Fifteen Second Testimony
✏️ Tool: The 3 Circles