Did You Know? Lea Salonga Is Also on "KPop Demon Hunters"

A short yet pivotal scene features the Filipino singer & actress' silky vocals.

Published on Jun 25, 2025

Lea Salonga had a special partication on Netflix's "KPop Demon Hunters"

Hallyu enthusiasts are in for quite a treat with KPop Demon Hunters, the latest animated film to dominate Netflix's most-viewed charts. Directed by Maggie Kang, a self-confessed fan of the vibrant genre, the flick explores themes of self-acceptance, camaraderie, and forgiveness against a catchy, all-original soundtrack. Korean acts from different fields and generations serve as the real-life voices behind the title's characters, with some utilizing their own vocal chops.

A mysterious gray figure in the story is brought to life by the globally acclaimed vocals of trailblazing Filipina actress Lea Salonga. Blink—or listen—too quickly and you might just miss her.

Did You Know?

Lea Salonga Voices This Character on "KPop Demon Hunters"

Revolving around the HUNTRIX, a girl group tasked to slay soul-eating demons by sealing the "Honmoon," KPop Demon Hunters enlists the industry's best to give the characters' speaking and singing capabilities.

Rumi, the purple-haired leader of the group, is voiced by actress Arden Cho when she's conversing, and by producer EJAE when she's performing. K-drama heartthrob Ahn Hyo Seop's voice is instantly recognizable through Jinu, Rumi's counterpart in rival boy band Saja Boys. Except for a minute-long acapella song during Jinu's introduction, the character sings through SM Entertainment talent Andrew Choi. Other notable voices you'll hear include Joel Kim Booster, Ken Jeong, Daniel Dae Kim, and Lee Byung Hun.

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PHOTO: Netflix.

The HUNTRIX are mentored by Celine, a former demon hunter who knew Rumi's deceased mother. Her appearances in the movie depict her policing Rumi from exposing too much about her identity, claiming it's the only way to protect her. Her maternal characterization is voiced by Yunjin Kim, whom you might know from XO, Kitty. During a short sequence in one of Rumi's flashbacks, she hums a lullaby sung by Lea Salonga behind the mic.

In an interview, director Maggie expressed her admiration for the actors who committed to both the speaking and singing parts of each character. "I have been a fan of these incredible artists and their work for many years, so it’s a dream come true to have original songs written and produced for our film by legendary talent," she shared.

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PHOTO: Netflix.

Maggie noted that one of the songs, Take Down, was actually sung by Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung of Korean mega group TWICE, much to her amazement. "It really legitimizes our film and songs in the K-pop world," she gushed. "It’s proof that we achieved what we set out to do, which is [to] make a real K-pop group."

Curious to hear how Celine sounds with Lea's voice? Stream KPop Demon Hunters on Netflix and see (or rather, hear) for yourself!

Em is queer and probably daydreaming somewhere. They're Preview's associate entertainment editor who's often spotted in cowboy boots and lemon-tinted sunnies.