‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans Are Bringing Their Crew to the Oscars

Hollywood Reporter

by Nicole Fell

March 3, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, directors of *KPop Demon Hunters*, are making history as they bring their team to the Oscars. The animated film, released on Netflix in June, became a massive hit, earning the title of the streamer’s most-watched show. Beyond its success on streaming, the movie also had a theatrical run for a sing-along version, further cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon. Kang and Appelhans are up for two Academy Awards: Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song. However, they’re quick to credit their large team for the film’s achievements, calling animation a collaborative effort that required years of work. Despite their success, the directors remain humble, expressing gratitude for their crew and planning to invite them to the Oscars as a token of appreciation. The film’s journey from concept to Oscar-nominated project is nothing short of remarkable. *KPop Demon Hunters* was incubated over seven years before finally seeing the light of day during uncertain times in the film industry. Kang reflects on how grateful she feels for the opportunity to create an original IP during a period dominated by sequels and remakes. The directors also weigh in on the debate surrounding streaming versus theatrical releases, noting that they’re still trying to understand how audiences are consuming content in today’s fragmented media landscape. While the film’s initial rollout on Netflix was key to its success, it later found a home in theaters, showcasing the potential for blending both distribution models. Kang and Appelhans have been surprised by the overwhelming support for their work, particularly from other filmmakers they admire. They’ve had meaningful interactions with artists like Daniel Dae Kim, who recognized the film’s significance for Korean creators and the broader entertainment industry. For Kang, these moments of appreciation make the journey feel even more rewarding, especially as she continues to advocate for diverse storytelling in Hollywood. As the Oscars approach, the directors are not just celebrating their own achievements but also those of their team, whom they credit with making *KPop Demon Hunters* a reality. The story of *KPop Demon Hunters* highlights the challenges and opportunities facing filmmakers today. From navigating an uncertain market to balancing streaming and theatrical releases, Kang and Appelhans’ journey underscores the importance

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 3/3/2026