Hyde Lane, the company representing the Christian metal band Demon Hunter, filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against Netflix Studios and concert promoter AEG Presents, claiming trademark infringement and unfair competition related to the film “KPop Demon Hunters.” The band asserts it has maintained an active presence in the music industry for approximately 25 years, consistently releasing albums, touring, and selling merchandise to a dedicated fanbase.
According to the filing, Netflix released the “KPop Demon Hunters” film in 2025, which went on to achieve significant commercial success not only as a streaming title but also through associated merchandise and a soundtrack album. The band contends that this success has created substantial consumer confusion, despite Netflix’s alleged awareness of Demon Hunter’s established trademark.
The lawsuit includes specific examples of the alleged confusion. One instance involved a concert attendee who purchased premium tickets for a Demon Hunter performance in Albany, New York, under the mistaken belief that they were acquiring tickets for a KPop Demon Hunters event. Additional reported incidents include a television producer who approached the band’s management thinking they were connected to the Netflix property, and social media users incorrectly tagging Demon Hunter in posts about the film.
Demon Hunter registered its trademark for recorded music and merchandise in 2022 and has filed additional applications for live music protection. Netflix has registered “KPop Demon Hunters” trademarks for merchandise uses, with further applications pending. The band is seeking a court order prohibiting Netflix’s use of the KPop Demon Hunters name in connection with recorded music, live performances, and merchandise, along with unspecified monetary damages. The “KPop Demon Hunters” animated film became Netflix’s most-watched original film following its release, with a sequel confirmed earlier this year and additional projects reportedly in development.
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