Lack Of Interest From Toymakers Before The Release Of 'Kpop Demon Hunters' Has Delayed Merchandise

The three women of HUNTR/X performing a song
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Image Source: BBC

The fanfare surrounding KPop Demon Hunters has been great, with the film becoming one of Sony’s most-watched ever. Yet despite all that fanfare, there’s nothing on the shelves for fans to show their love of the film. Despite approaching its licensing partners more than 12 months before its release, interest was slim.

Now deals are being made to manufacture merchandise, though any KPop Demon Hunters merch won’t be available for the busiest time of the year for toy sales. Mattel has the license to produce dolls, action figures, accessories, collectibles, and play sets. Hasbro is producing stuffys toys, electronics, and board games. With both deals only having been signed last week, the earliest any merch will be visible on shelves is Spring 2026.

Nick Karamanos, senior vice president of entertainment partnerships at Mattel, said to The Hollywood Reporter that production usually takes 18 months from concept to being available to buy. There is a rush to get products out onto shelves, though Karamanos has stated that quality control will not suffer to get those products out faster.

For those who want a little something to show their love, Netflix’s own shop does have some merchandise available. Clothing with KPop Demon Hunter branding, Funko Pop! Figures, and various other small items can be bought, with such items rolling out to the likes of Amazon and Hot Topic. Naturally, knockoff products are filling the gap, though Netflix is intent on removing those knockoffs from sale.

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