Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters is facing an unexpected legal battle with a metal band over its name.
Netflix is facing a trademark lawsuit from Christian metal band Demon Hunter over the name of its hit animated movie KPop Demon Hunters. The lawsuit, filed August 18 in a California federal court, also names concert promoter AEG Presents as a defendant.
As the lawsuit states, "Netflix is no more entitled to use the mark KPOP DEMON HUNTERS than it would be to launch a recording artist, live touring show, and merchandise under the marks KPOP METALLICA, KPOP U2 or KPOP BLACK SABBATH"
Demon Hunter, which has used its name since the early 2000s, claims Netflix's use of KPop Demon Hunters has caused consumer confusion.
The band has had trademark protections covering its name for recorded music and merchandise since 2022.
Demon Hunter Claims Fans Are Confused
The lawsuit reportedly cites several examples of alleged confusion. In one case, a customer allegedly purchased around $500 worth of tickets to a Demon Hunter concert in New York, believing they were connected to KPop Demon Hunters.
The band also claims a television producer had contacted them, believing Demon Hunter were related to KPop Demon Hunters.
Demon Hunter says it has received additional media inquiries and social-media attention intended for the Netflix franchise.
What Does Demon Hunter Want?
Demon Hunter is seeking an injunction that would prevent Netflix and AEG from using KPop Demon Hunters in connection with music, live entertainment, and merchandise. The band is also seeking monetary damages.
A rep for Netflix told Rolling Stone, "These allegations are without merit. [...] Netflix has created an Academy Award-winning global phenomenon with KPop Demon Hunters that has inspired fans around the world with its powerful music, storytelling, and characters. We look forward to vigorously defending this matter."
The lawsuit comes as KPop Demon Hunters has grown into a major multimedia franchise. The film became Netflix's most-watched movie and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, while its soundtrack became a major commercial success.