Arden Cho Reflects on Identity and Success in 'KPop Demon Hunters'

Tue Nov 18 2025 05:09:43 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Arden Cho discusses her personal journey and how it parallels her character Rumi in the animated film 'KPop Demon Hunters', which achieved significant popularity on Netflix.

In a heartfelt conversation, Arden Cho shares her experiences growing up as an Asian-American in Texas and how they relate to her role as Rumi in 'KPop Demon Hunters'. The film, which tells the story of a K-Pop trio battling evil, not only resonated with audiences but also made waves in the film industry as it reached the top 10 charts in 93 countries shortly after its release. Cho emphasizes the importance of representation and the impact of her character on young Asian-Americans, reflecting on the film's broader significance in their struggle for acceptance.

This is part of the Global Women series from the BBC World Service, sharing extraordinary interviews and stories from around the globe.

I hated that I looked Asian, that I didn't have blue eyes and blonde hair, because that's what was beautiful at the time, says Arden Cho, the actress who voiced Rumi, star of Netflix's chart-topping animated film, 'KPop Demon Hunters'.

Cho, 40, is describing her childhood in Texas as the eldest daughter of Korean immigrant parents and her struggle for acceptance in American society.

In the film, which tells the story of a female K-Pop trio who must save the world from evil forces, Rumi has to come to terms with her identity as part human, part demon - and when Cho first read the script, it resonated powerfully.

Being born in America, feeling American but having people treat me like I'm not, trying to figure out my identity as an Asian-American, as a Korean-American, as a woman, she says.

These elements mirrored Rumi's journey closely. At different points in my life, I hated a lot of myself and wanted to be someone else. As kids, what you see shapes who you become, and I just didn't see enough people that looked like me.

'KPop Demon Hunters' registered 33 million views within two weeks of its Netflix release and featured Korean leads, marking a significant moment for visibility in Hollywood. Cho mentioned that many in the Korean-American community feel proud of their cultural heritage because of the film's success.

Against the backdrop of rising immigration raids in the US during the Trump administration, Cho spoke about the challenges facing immigrants and the importance of representation. She believes racism often stems from lack of education and is hopeful that 'KPop Demon Hunters' can unite communities and provide a sense of hope.

Regarding the impact of AI in the entertainment industry, Cho respects its usage but remains hopeful for the continued appreciation of authentic human creativity. The film's success has led to demands for a sequel, which Cho expresses excitement about, although she acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding future projects.