'K-Demon Hunter' Ahn Hyo-seop, First Korean Actor to Appear Live on CBS News Prime Time

The actor Ahn Hyo-seop, who voiced Jinwoo in 'K-Demon Hunter', became the first Korean actor to appear live on CBS News.

The Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation co-produced film 〈K-Pop Demon Hunters〉 has recorded a cumulative view count of 325.1 million, becoming the first film in Netflix history to surpass 300 million views, and the American 〈CBS News 24/7〉 invited actor Ahn Hyo-seop.

Ahn Hyo-seop appeared in a live interview on the Friday evening broadcast of American 〈CBS News 24/7〉 aired on the 26th. CBS is one of the three major terrestrial broadcasters in the U.S., and it is the first time a Korean actor has had a live interview during prime time on a Friday evening. Initially, CBS had planned to invite Ahn Hyo-seop to their New York studio, but it was reported that the on-site appearance was canceled due to drama filming schedules.

In the interview, Ahn Hyo-seop defined the universal message of the work as "an honest story about accepting oneself." He explained, "Sometimes the biggest obstacle is not the world but oneself. Jinwoo and Lumi face that and grow," highlighting a point that many can relate to. He continued, "I feel proud to see people around the world singing along to Korean lyrics and learning the language. But more than that, music and stories connect us strongly across borders."

When asked about the sequel, he mentioned, "These characters have just begun their journey," referring to the growth potential of Jinwoo and his companions. He also added a heartfelt wish, "I want to meet Jinwoo again. Please, return his soul to me," further capturing the fans' attention. In particular, he quoted Jinwoo's lines from the drama, providing fans with unexpected moments and raising expectations for the next season.

Below is the full Q&A between CBS and Ahn Hyo-seop.

Q1. Why do you think these characters, this story, and the music resonate with so many people from different backgrounds?

A. Hello, nice to meet you. I think it's because it's very honest. This is a story about accepting oneself. It's also about facing the beings within us. Everyone has made mistakes, and everyone has something they want to hide or turn back time on. Sometimes the biggest obstacle is not the world but oneself. Jinwoo and Lumi face that. But instead of running away, they grow. I think that's a point many people can relate to.

Q2. What does it mean to you to see Korean culture represented on such an international scale?

A. Honestly, it's really surreal and very amazing. When I was young, I never imagined that Korean culture would be accepted globally like this. Seeing people around the world singing along to Korean lyrics, learning the language, and being inspired by our movies and dramas makes me really proud. But more than that, I think it shows that stories and music can connect us powerfully across borders.

Q3. Many fans are already looking forward to the sequel. Where do you think this story should go next?

A. I don't have much information. But what's interesting is that these characters have just begun their journey. They have already faced several challenges, but there is still much room for growth. I want to see how their bonds deepen and how their music continues to remain a weapon of 'hope.' And personally, I want to meet Jinwoo again. Please, return his soul to me.

Q4. Did you expect this kind of success?

A. No, not at all. I never imagined that Korean content or films would grow this big globally.