KPop Demon Hunters Soundtrack Faces AI Controversy Over Hit Song “Soda Pop”

Netflix’s animated blockbuster KPop Demon Hunters is at the center of an online debate. The controversy involves its chart-topping soundtrack and the use of artificial intelligence. A songwriter’s comments about using ChatGPT were initially misinterpreted.

This sparked widespread discussion about AI’s role in creative arts. The situation was later clarified, but the conversation continues.

Misinterpreted Comments Spark Widespread Confusion

The incident began at an OpenAI event in Seoul. Vince, a co-writer of the hit song “Soda Pop,” spoke about using AI. An executive’s social media post claimed Vince used ChatGPT to write the specific song.

This claim was quickly picked up by international news outlets. According to a report by Gizmodo, the original Korean news article was mistranslated. The English version suggested direct AI involvement in the song’s creation.

However, the Korean version told a different story. Vince’s actual comments were broader. He stated he sometimes uses ChatGPT for general inspiration during K-Pop production.

Clarifications Issued Amid Lasting Fan Concerns

The record was officially set straight days later. Joongang Daily corrected its English-language article on the matter. The publication removed the incorrect claim about “Soda Pop.”

The original social media post from the OpenAI executive was also deleted. Paradoxically, the initial mistranslation may have been aided by AI tools. A note on the corrected article stated generative AI assisted the translation process.

Despite these clarifications, the story had already spread widely online. Some fans expressed disappointment, believing a human-made hit was partially AI-generated. Netflix and the songwriter have not issued additional public statements.

The KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack remains a monumental success regardless of the AI confusion. “Soda Pop” proved its popularity organically, cementing the film’s cultural impact.

Info at your fingertips

Did AI actually write the song “Soda Pop”?

No. Reports that AI wrote the song were based on a mistranslation. The songwriter clarified he uses ChatGPT for general inspiration, not for writing specific songs.

How successful is the KPop Demon Hunters movie?

It is a massive hit. The film became Netflix’s most-watched title ever by early September, surpassing the record previously held by Squid Game.

How did “Soda Pop” perform on music charts?

It was a global hit. The song peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and reached No. 3 on the Billboard Global 200 chart.

Has Netflix used AI in other productions?

Yes. Netflix has confirmed using generative AI for special effects in an unnamed TV show. The company has also published AI guidelines for its production partners.

Trusted Sources

Gizmodo, Joongang Daily, Billboard, Netflix