'Want to understand K-pop, watch BTS live:' Arden Cho aka Rumi of KPop Demon Hunters on the group's global influence

Breaking records and stealing hearts - K-Pop Demon Hunters is doing it all. From sobbing over Jinu of Saja Boys sacrificing himself to dancing along to the film's addictive soundtrack, fans can't get enough of this Netflix sensation. The buzz isn't just about the animation or storyline - it's about the emotional punch and cultural resonance.

Director Maggie Kang has already credited BTS as a major influence in bringing the film to life. Now, Arden Cho - the voice behind Rumi - is also sharing her admiration for the seven-member global phenomenon that has come to define K-pop for millions.


In K-Pop Demon Hunters, Cho brings to life Rumi, the fierce and layered leader of HUNTR/X, a fictional K-pop girl group with a secret life as demon hunters. But Rumi isn't an average idol. Born with evil blood, she constantly battles her inner darkness, relying on honmun - a sacred spiritual barrier powered by the energy of her fandom - to keep it at bay.
For Cho, a Korean-American actress who has spent her life straddling two cultures, the role struck a deep personal chord. "This project was a journey of self-discovery," she said with quiet intensity. "I had to be a part of it."


Born and raised in the U.S. to Korean immigrant parents, Cho often travels to Seoul to stay connected to her roots. During an interview in Gangnam, she revealed she had originally auditioned for the role of Celine, HUNTR/X's wise mentor. But the creative team saw something else - they saw Rumi in her. At the time, Cho was vacationing in Korea. Without hesitation, she flew back to the U.S. to audition - and the role became hers.


When asked about her favorite real-life K-pop act, Cho didn't hesitate: BTS. "I love many groups, but BTS is the best," she said with a smile. "I even flew to Las Vegas during filming to catch their concert. If you want to understand what K-pop truly is, you have to see them live."



This movie isn't just a hit; it's a record-breaker! With over 33 million global views on Netflix in its first two weeks, it's the platform's most streamed film.

Its musical impact is equally impressive: the fictional boy band Saja Boys' track Your Idol just soared to number one on the US Spotify chart. This unprecedented achievement makes them the highest-charting male K-pop group in US Spotify history, dethroning even K-pop giants BTS.

The film's girl group, Huntr/x, also made history with Golden, reaching number two and becoming the highest-charting female K-pop group, surpassing Blackpink.

For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.