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Christian metal band sues Netflix over 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' title
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฑ Chile /Culture & Society

Christian metal band sues Netflix over 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' title

From Cooperativa · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • A Christian metal band named Demon Hunter is suing Netflix over the title of its animated film "K-Pop Demon Hunters."
  • The band claims Netflix's use of the name infringes on their trademark and could confuse consumers.
  • The lawsuit alleges Netflix's film, a cultural phenomenon and Oscar winner, unfairly leverages the band's established brand.

Seattle-based Christian metal band Demon Hunter has filed a lawsuit against Netflix, accusing the streaming giant of infringing on their trademark with the title "K-Pop Demon Hunters." The band argues that Netflix's animated film, a massive cultural success and winner of two Oscars, unfairly capitalizes on their established brand.

The lawsuit, filed in a California court, states that Netflix's use of "K-Pop Demon Hunters" could "eclipse" the Demon Hunter brand owned by Hyde Lane corporation. The band contends that Netflix's promotion of a world tour for the film leads consumers to believe Hyde Lane is affiliated with or sponsored by Netflix, thereby diminishing their control over their commercial destiny.

Demon Hunter, founded in 2000 by brothers Don and Ryan Clark, expresses religious beliefs in their music. They argue that Netflix has no more right to use "K-POP DEMON HUNTERS" than to release a record or live show under names like "K-POP METALLICA" or "KPOP BLACK SABBATH." The band fears the Netflix film not only causes public confusion but also threatens to displace them from the market.

The animated film, released on June 20 last year, became Netflix's most-watched project in history. Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, it won Oscars for best animated feature and best original song. A sequel is slated for release in 2029.

En pocas palabras, Netflix no tiene mรกs derecho a usar la marca K-POP DEMON HUNTERS que a lanzar un artista discogrรกfico, un espectรกculo en vivo y productos bajo las marcas K-POP METALLICA, K-POP U2 o KPOP BLACK SABBATH

โ€” Demon Hunter lawsuitAn analogy used in the lawsuit to illustrate the alleged infringement.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Cooperativa in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.