Debuting in June of 2025, Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters became an instant and inescapable hit that brought in fans across all ages. Centered around a superstar K-pop girl group, who are leading a double life as demon hunters, the movie has become known for its broad appeal and catchy musical numbers and has been viewed more than 500 million times. Its engaging storyline, catchy musical numbers, and colorful animation style have made it especially appealing to families, winning it Best Animated Feature at the Critics’ Choice and Golden Globe awards.
For young viewers, the movie offers an opportunity to enjoy not only fun characters and songs but also to learn about K-pop and Korean folklore. If you have a kid in your life who’s a fan, why not use it as a jumping-off point to select some readalouds that dive further into the culture of Korea?
Below, you’ll find great recommendations to get you started, with a picture book that features two siblings traveling through a world of illustrated folktales, a funny story about what happens when a pair of dokkaebi brothers move from Korea to New York City, and an illustrated guide to Korean food and dining culture. Since a sequel to KPop Demon Hunters has yet to be announced, these books can help you and your children extend their enjoyment of the film!
Where’s Halmoni? by Julie Kim
Like KPop Demon Hunters creator and director Maggie Kang, Julie Kim draws on her Korean heritage to inspire her work. In Where’s Halmoni?, two siblings are searching for their halmoni (grandmother) when they stumble upon a set of giant paw prints that lead them into a world populated by characters from Korean folklore. The book’s text (which features words in both English and Korean) combines with gorgeous illustrations to tell the story of their adventure.
A Very Asian Guide to Korean Food by Michelle Li, Illustrated by Sunnu Rebecca Choi
Food is always a delicious way to celebrate cultures, and readers of all ages will enjoy this guide to Korean food that presents information with brief text and storybook-style illustrations. KPop Demon Hunters fans can explore the featured dishes and learn how to make a delicious Korean dish for their next watch.
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The Goblin Twins by Frances Cha, Illustrated by Jaime Kim
What if you could hear a folktale from the tricksters’ perspectives? In Frances Cha’s Goblin Twin series, readers are introduced to 601-year-old dokkaebi (goblin tricksters) Doki and Kebi, who have recently relocated to New York City and are planning a Halloween night of scares and adventure. As the brothers adjust to their new home, readers learn about the Korean mythology of dokkaebi in this fun story.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out the official KPop Demon Hunters Little Golden Book: For the Fans!
Book Riot has plenty more recommendations for KPop Demon Hunters fans of all ages! For teens and young adults, check out this list of fantasy books and these books for K-pop fans. You can also explore Korean culture and folklore with your child through these picture books.
English (US) · 