Netflix’s animated musical film KPop Demon Hunters has broken all kinds of records, changing into the platform’s most-watched film ever in solely three months. With a whole bunch of hundreds of thousands of views throughout the globe, the movie’s catchy tunes, epic combat scenes, and highly effective feminine protagonists have made followers out of every kind of individuals, whether or not or not they’d listened to Okay-pop earlier than.
However what’s Okay-pop with out its choreography? Dance can be an vital function of KPop Demon Hunters, which is stuffed with energetic live performance scenes and movement-heavy musical breaks. The movie follows the fictional woman group HUNTR/X, who’re additionally secretly demon hunters, of their quest to save lots of their followers from The Saja Boys, a troupe of demons disguised as a rival boy band.
South Korean dancer and choreographer Jo Na-In created dances for 2 of the film’s songs, fan-favorite “Golden” and “Takedown.” (Lee Jung choreographed “How It’s Performed” and “Soda Pop.”) Right here, Na-In talks about how she made HUNTR/X shine on the digital stage.
How did you begin choreographing, and the way did you become involved with KPop Demon Hunters?
I first began dancing once I adopted a pal to an area dance academy. After that, I took a whole lot of fundamental coaching and choreography courses to get higher. All that apply piled up, and it appears to have led me to grow to be an expert dancer, which is what I’m as we speak.
I obtained concerned with KPop Demon Hunters round this time final yr. The CEO of my company, Jam Republic, really helpful me. I used to be grateful to have the ability to participate within the undertaking!
How did you method choreographing for HUNTR/X?
I used the key phrase “animation” to provide you with strikes that felt intuitive and dynamic. The inspiration for “Golden” got here from the tune itself, which made me think about a powerful live performance efficiency on a grand stage.
Once I was engaged on the choreography, I targeted on the storytelling that wanted to be conveyed by way of the animation. I attempted to pay attention extra on expressing the lyrics and feelings. The music was so good that the choreography got here out actually shortly and was a whole lot of enjoyable.

How do you are feeling concerning the film’s success? Your choreography is all around the web with movie clips, followers re-creating the dances, and even tutorials!
Truthfully, earlier than this film was launched, I didn’t have a transparent concept of what it might be like. However after watching it, I noticed it’s filled with issues the general public loves, like Okay-pop artists and music, a cute and enjoyable story, and action-packed battles towards evil spirits. All of those parts made it extra interesting, and I feel it has the whole lot wanted to be successful with audiences!
I additionally by no means anticipated my choreography to obtain a lot love. As a dancer, it’s certainly one of my targets to be somebody who leaves an affect, and this undertaking was significantly significant to me.
What’s your favourite dance or tune from the movie?
My choreography for “Golden” might be what I’m most keen on. That scene actually resonated with me emotionally. I additionally actually love “Soda Pop,” by The Saja Boys!
What do you hope to do subsequent?
As a choreographer and dancer, I consider my job is to always tackle new issues. That’s why this animation undertaking was so thrilling for me. Sooner or later, I need to hold difficult myself with even larger levels and extra numerous initiatives!
