Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters is sparking mixed reactions in Japan after topping the Billboard Hot 100 with the song “Golden.”
The track was composed and sung by a former SM Entertainment trainee, gaining major attention in Japan. But the response from Japanese netizens wasn’t all praise.
Some criticized the animation style:
“I don’t like the drawing style. I feel like they were being conscious of Pixar.”
Others acknowledged the K-Pop blend’s success in capturing younger audiences:
“The combination of an easy animation and K-Pop, the subject of envy, has succeeded in getting the young people’s attention.”
But many showed skepticism or indifference:
“I don’t see what’s so great about it at all. Animation with Japanese culture is the best.”
“Did you all really watch the series?”
“I’m shocked at the ranking for an animation song.”
Meanwhile, Korean fans fired back at the lukewarm Japanese responses:
“If you’re jealous, then why don’t you put your mind to it and make your own?”
“There’s no change in Japanese response. No matter what they say, I don’t think they are our competition anymore.”
The debate highlights pride in this crossover K-pop success, while Japanese netizens remain divided over the series’ impact and style. The situation is ongoing, with K-netizens closely monitoring the reactions.
