Church school raises concerns over supernatural themes
A Church of England primary school in Poole, Dorset, has urged parents to discourage children from singing songs from KPop Demon Hunters, citing a conflict with Christian values. Lilliput Church of England Infant School shared concerns in a message to families, highlighting that the film’s references to demons made some in the Christian community “deeply uncomfortable.” The school serves children aged 4 to 7 and is operated by the Diocese of Salisbury.
Popular film’s themes spark school warning
Released in June, KPop Demon Hunters is Netflix’s most-watched film to date. It follows a fictional K-pop girl group that secretly battles demons and features the demon boy band, The Saja Boys. Songs from the movie, including chart-toppers “Golden” and “Soda Pop,” have become cultural staples—performed even at Buckingham Palace and the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. Despite its popularity, the film’s supernatural content led the school to act out of concern for its faith-based ethos.
Parents call the request overreaching
The school’s initial letter prompted mixed reactions. Some parents criticized the move as unnecessary. One father, identifying as an atheist, told the BBC the guidance felt like “a bit of an imposition.” He argued the songs were boosting children’s confidence and were harmless fun. Another parent noted that while they respected the school overall, they felt this situation was unusual and may have been influenced by external pressure.
School softens stance after parental feedback
In a follow-up letter, acting head teacher Lloyd Allington acknowledged that many families saw the film as promoting positive messages like courage and teamwork. He clarified that students would not be disciplined for singing the songs or wearing related merchandise. The school emphasized its intent to promote respectful dialogue around differing beliefs, not to police children’s musical preferences.
Christian perspectives clash with popular culture
The issue also touches on broader debates about how Christian values intersect with pop culture. EJAE, a songwriter behind several tracks in the film, reflected on her Christian background in an interview, noting that the lyrics purposely engaged with themes of idolatry and obsession. For some, that deeper context only heightens the tension.
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Christian school head teacher, parents spar over ‘KPop Demon Hunters’