DNEG Animation’s INSPIRE Series Welcomes the ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Team!

Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans dive into the making of their hit animated film.

27.10.25
DNEG Animation joined by the 'KPop Demon Hunters' team as part of our INSPIRE Series!

Earlier this month, we were thrilled to host an INSPIRE Series session with the directors behind the animated film, Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans!


INSPIRE Blog - KPop Demon Hunters - Header slide pic


Joining us in our London studio, the duo shared how they developed their original idea into a true global phenomenon.


INSPIRE Blog - KPop Demon Hunters - Idea slide pic


Since it's release this summer, KPop Demon Hunters has scored several major milestones, including becoming Netflix's most-watched film and achieving the longest-ever run on the English-language Netflix Top 10, a record-breaking soundtrack which included four simultaneous #1s on the Billboard Hot 100, and a theatrical run with more than 1,300 sold-out screenings!

Speaking with our crew, Maggie and Chris spoke on the making of the film, diving into how they blended authentic Korean culture, bonafide k-pop tunes, and a unique visual style into an unforgettable film that pushes the boundaries of storytelling.


INSPIRE Blog - KPop Demon Hunters - behind the scenes slides


The session was moderated by our own Kara Orapallo, VP of Crew Development, DNEG Animation. It had a great turnout, with 50 in-person attendees and 798 members of our crew tuning in via Zoom! We were also thrilled to be joined by the co-directors of Bad Fairies, Megan Dong and Olivier Staphylas, pictured below with Maggie and Chris.


INSPIRE Blog - KPop Demon Hunters - crew pics!

L - R: Chris Appelhans, Kara Orapallo, Maggie Kang | L - R: Olivier Staphylas, Chris Appelhans, Maggie Kang, Megan Dong



Huge thank you to Maggie and Chris for joining us!


DNEG Animation’s INSPIRE Series invites inspiring speakers to share their knowledge and experience with our global animation crews. Launched in 2021, the series was created to encourage our team’s passion for animation through exciting learning opportunities and celebrations of innovative new work within the industry. Learn more about INSPIRE from the creators here!