Christian metal band Demon Hunter is taking legal action against Netflix, alleging trademark infringement over the streaming giant's animated series, also titled Demon Hunters. The band, formed in 2000, argues that the similarity in names has created significant public confusion, jeopardizing their established brand.
According to legal documents, Demon Hunter contends that the popularity of the K-Pop Demon Hunters animated series poses an "existential crisis" to their musical identity, which they have cultivated over more than two decades. The lawsuit highlights instances where fans have mistaken the two entities. One fan reportedly purchased $500 worth of tickets for a Demon Hunter concert, only to discover it was a metal show and not the animated family-friendly production they anticipated.
Further examples cited in the litigation include Demon Hunter being erroneously tagged in K-Pop related discussions on social media and a television producer contacting the band under the assumption they were affiliated with Netflix. These incidents, the band claims, demonstrate the confusion caused by the overlapping names.
Demon Hunter has released 13 albums throughout their career, featuring songs like "My Throat Is an Open Grave." K-Pop Demon Hunters, released in 2025, has achieved significant viewership on Netflix, surpassing titles such as Squid Game and Stranger Things, and has garnered awards including Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song at the Golden Globes and Academy Awards. A sequel is reportedly planned for release around 2029.
The band is seeking a court injunction to prevent Netflix from using the "K-Pop Demon Hunters" name for music, live events, and merchandise. They are also requesting unspecified damages.