Film "KPop Demon Hunters" co-director Chris Appelhans is coming to Korea with his family.
On the 17th, the team behind "Welcome, First Time in Korea?" confirmed that Chris Appelhans, co-director of the animated film "KPop Demon Hunters", will appear on the show.
On March 15 (local time), "KPop Demon Hunters" swept both Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars), putting the spotlight back on the film. It previously took home Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song at the Golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards, and won the Animation Award from the Chicago Film Critics Association, underscoring its singular artistry.
While director Maggie Kang is well known for helming "KPop Demon Hunters", the film was co-directed with Chris Appelhans. Appelhans is regarded in the industry as a true powerhouse. At Sony Pictures, he’s influential enough to handpick and lead projects, winning over critics and audiences worldwide with tight storytelling and striking visuals.
His tie to Korea runs deep. His wife is known as a Korean painter and prominent artist, and Appelhans himself is famous for his deep affection for Korean culture.
News of Appelhans joining "Welcome, First Time in Korea?" has viewers excited. This trip will also spotlight his “sweet dad” side. Inspired by the film, his five-year-old son wants to learn Hangul, so the whole family decided to come to Korea. The director’s warm, human side―encouraging his son’s curiosity and showing him Korean culture firsthand―is expected to deliver heartfelt moments on screen.
Korea is also a special source of inspiration for Appelhans. During production of "KPop Demon Hunters" Season 1, a research trip to Korea played a central role in shaping the project. Fans are curious how this visit might influence his next work. What will Korea look like through a master’s eyes in 2026―and how will this journey evolve into new artistic inspiration?
Chris Appelhans is set to appear on MBC every1’s "Welcome, First Time in Korea?" on Thursday, March 19, at 8:30 p.m.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)