Hyde Lane, the company behind metal band Demon Hunter, sued Netflix Studios and AEG Presents on Tuesday, seeking to block use of “Kpop Demon Hunters” for recorded music, live shows and merchandise.
The complaint says Netflix’s hit film, merch push and planned 2027 global tour create “almost complete overlap” with the band’s business and have already caused substantial consumer confusion.
Evidence cited includes a buyer who allegedly spent $500 on New York concert tickets thinking the event was a child-friendly K-pop show, plus mistaken media inquiries and social posts tagging the band.
Demon Hunter says its 25-year brand is at risk despite holding a 2022 trademark for recorded music and merchandise and a pending live-music application; Netflix has its own merchandise trademark registrations and more applications pending.
The clash comes as Kpop Demon Hunters has expanded from a 2025 animated film into Netflix’s most-watched original title, with 27 million Spotify listeners for its cast, awards wins and a sequel in development.