Los angeles: US Christian metal band Demon Hunter has filed a lawsuit against Netflix and concert promoter AEG Presents, alleging that the animated film "KPop Demon Hunters" infringes on its trademark and is causing consumer confusion.
According to Anadolu Agency, the complaint was lodged by Hyde Lane Inc., the company operating as Demon Hunter, in the US District Court for the Central District of California. The lawsuit names Netflix, Netflix Studios, and AEG Presents as defendants, accusing them of trademark infringement, false designation of origin, and unfair competition.
Demon Hunter, which has been active for approximately 25 years, contends that Netflix's use of the "KPop Demon Hunters" name extends beyond the 2025 film to include a soundtrack, merchandise, and live entertainment. In May, Netflix and AEG Presents announced plans for a global concert tour based on the film, with further details on cities, dates, and ticketing yet to be disclosed.
The lawsuit asserts that in a short span, the defendants have significantly overlapped with the goods and services offered by Hyde Lane under the Demon Hunter trademark. Hyde Lane holds a US federal trademark registration for Demon Hunter, covering live performances by a musical band since 2014, with the mark's first commercial use dating back to 2001.
The company claims that the wider market reach of Netflix and AEG could mislead consumers into believing the band is associated with or endorsed by the film franchise. As evidence of this confusion, the complaint includes an email from a customer who mistakenly spent $500 on tickets for a Demon Hunter concert in Albany, New York, thinking they were purchasing tickets to a family-friendly "KPop Demon Hunters" show for their young daughters. The customer requested a refund upon realizing the error.
Hyde Lane is seeking a jury trial and an injunction to prevent the continued use of the name in question. Additionally, they are demanding profits related to the disputed branding, damages, and legal fees.
"KPop Demon Hunters," which follows a fictional K-pop girl group battling supernatural forces, premiered in June 2025. Netflix claims the film has garnered over 500 million views, marking it as the platform's most popular movie. As of Wednesday, Netflix and AEG Presents had not publicly addressed the allegations. The case remains in its early stages, with the claims yet to be examined in court.