Your Kid Is Obsessed with K‑Pop Demon Hunters. Here’s Why That’s a Good Thing...

If your child hasn’t stopped talking about K‑Pop Demon Hunters lately, you’re not alone. Netflix’s animated hit has captured hearts with its catchy songs, high-stakes battles, and fierce girl group energy. Beyond the dazzling visuals and music, however, there’s something deeper pulling young viewers in. And as a parent, this is your chance to connect.

It’s Not Just a Pop Show! It’s About Identity, Pressure, and Belonging

Behind every glittery costume and catchy beat, K‑Pop Demon Hunters tells a story kids recognize: being expected to perform when they’re tired, hiding parts of themselves to “fit in,” and learning how to speak up for who they are. The main character, Rumi, literally loses her voice. For many tweens and teens navigating stress, anxiety, school pressures, or gender identity, that hits hard.

If your child is rewatching scenes, memorizing lyrics, or drawing fan art, pay attention. That might be their way of processing feelings they don’t have words for yet.

Ask the Right Questions

Instead of the usual “What’s that show even about?” try:

• “Which girl in the group do you connect with most?”

• “What’s your favorite song from the movie, and what do you like about it?”

• “Do you think the demons in the movie could represent something like fear or pressure?”

Meet Them in Their Fandom

If your child loves the music, make a “family remix” playlist and let them DJ the car ride. If they’re into the art, join them in drawing their own demon or hero character. Even watching the film together (and asking real questions) can go a long way in showing you care about what matters to them.

What You’re Really Saying: “I See You.”

When kids see that you’re curious - not critical - about what they love, it sends a powerful message: you matter, and your passions are valid. That kind of validation builds trust, self-esteem, and connection. And in today’s world, that’s more important than ever.

So next time you hear Golden blasting through the house for the fifth time… maybe lean in and sing along.

At A New Hope Therapy Center, we speak the language of children and teens, whether that’s K-pop, cartoons, or fandoms, because connection grows where kids feel understood. If your child or family could use support, we’re here for you. Contact us today.

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A self-described geek, Maria Laquerre-Diego is a CEO and Owner who is committed to increasing access to mental health services and breaking down the stigma surrounding therapy services. As a therapist turned CEO, Maria has developed a unique perspective when it comes to mental health and the barriers surrounding mental health treatment. Influenced by her time at New Mexico State University in the Family and Consumer Science department, and University of New Hampshire’s Marriage and Family Therapy department, Maria has turned her dedication to giving back and supporting future generations of therapists. In addition to supporting mental health providers, Maria takes an active role in addressing the continued stigma of mental health services through the use of pop culture – everything from movies and television shows to superheroes and Disney characters. Maria has spoken about mental health at several local events, has served as an officer on professional boards and has provided training to clinicians all over the country while maintaining her and her family’s roots as Aggies! Outside of the office, Maria can be found spending time with her family and loved ones, exploring the world through travel, and creating cosplays for herself, her husband and their two little ones. Maria is always happy to talk about Star Wars, Marvel and mental health and can be contacted through her practice website www.anewhopetc.org