KPop Demon Hunters Faces Trademark Lawsuit From Metal Band

Christian metal band ‘Demon Hunter’ has sued Netflix, Netflix Studios, and AEG Presents over the KPop Demon Hunters name, alleging trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false designation of origin. Filed on Aug 18, 2026, through the band’s corporation Hyde Lane, the lawsuit argues that the 2025 film has expanded into music, merchandise, and live events.

The band claims this expansion has created confusion with Demon Hunter’s established commercial identity.

KPop Demon Hunters Expands Across Entertainment Formats

According to Hyde Lane, ‘Demon Hunter’ has been active since the early 2000s, building its presence through album releases, tours, and merchandise over roughly 25 years. The filing describes the band as the “senior user” of the Demon Hunter mark and alleges that Netflix and its partners disregarded Hyde Lane’s rights while expanding into overlapping areas.

The complaint points to the success of KPop Demon Hunters and its soundtrack and merchandise, followed by Netflix’s partnership with AEG on a global concert tour planned for 150 cities. Hyde Lane says these developments have brought the defendants into “almost complete overlap” with the goods and services offered under the Demon Hunter name.

KPop Demon Hunters is also expanding into physical media, with Criterion preparing November 2026 editions across 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD ahead of the sequel.

The band claims that confusion has already occurred, with consumers allegedly believing the two brands are affiliated, sponsored, or otherwise connected. It says the resulting commercial and reputational impact has diverted consumers built around Demon Hunter over decades.

What Does Demon Hunter Want From Netflix and AEG?

Hyde Lane argues that the defendants’ larger resources and marketplace reach can overshadow the band’s identity. The complaint says Demon Hunter has been “forced to surrender control over its commercial identity” because Netflix and AEG have greater resources and a larger marketplace footprint.

The lawsuit seeks treble damages, injunctive relief, exemplary damages, Netflix’s profits, and attorneys’ fees. Hyde Lane also requested a jury trial and said its damages have not yet been determined.

Representatives for Netflix and AEG have not yet responded.

The case now places the naming and commercial expansion of a major Netflix franchise against a band that says it established the Demon Hunter identity decades earlier. Its outcome could determine how the competing uses are treated as KPop Demon Hunters expands beyond streaming into live entertainment and merchandise.