From 'Grim Reaper' to K-Pop Icon: Netflix Hit Ignites Calls for Sejong City Statue's Return

A public sculpture in South Korea's Sejong City, once reviled as the 'Grim Reaper Statue' and dismantled five years ago, is now at the center of a surprising cultural comeback. Fueling this re-evaluation is the global phenomenon of Netflix's animated film, 'K-Pop Demon Hunters,' inspiring fans to demand the artwork's reinstatement.

Officially named 'Heunggeoun Uri Garak' ('Joyful Korean Rhythm'), the metal sculpture was installed in 2014 to embody traditional Korean elegance with a figure in hanbok. However, residents quickly dismissed it as 'eerie' and 'grotesque,' leading to widespread public opposition. Despite being relocated, criticism persisted, culminating in its permanent removal and storage by 2019, branded a 'taxpayer-funded monstrosity.'

The tide turned with the immense success of 'K-Pop Demon Hunters.' Viewers drew striking parallels between the statue and the film's fictional boy group, 'Saja Boys,' whose designs cleverly borrow from Korean folkloric grim reapers. Online communities have since embraced the statue as 'ahead of its time' and 'the true Saja Boys,' with petitions even emerging on Korea's official public portal advocating for its return.

'K-Pop Demon Hunters,' a vibrant spectacle following the girl group Huntrix battling evil spirits, has become a global smash. By September 3rd, it had accumulated 266 million viewing hours on Netflix, eclipsing 'Squid Game' as the platform's most-watched title to date. Supporters now argue the statue symbolizes a cultural touchstone rather than a failed public project. While the public's sentiment shifts, government officials remain cautious, stating that reintroducing a piece once removed due to strong public opposition is challenging, and any potential reinstatement would follow a review under Korea's Cultural Promotion Act.

The animated film 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' has emerged as a groundbreaking global success, featuring the fictional K-Pop girl group Huntrix in their battle against evil spirits. Blending dynamic K-Pop visuals with elements of traditional Korean folklore, the movie offers a unique cultural experience. Its unprecedented viewing hours on Netflix, surpassing 'Squid Game,' underscore the immense international appeal and impact of K-Content.