Just a few days ago, fans of both pop culture and collectible gaming received exciting news: the much-anticipated project *KPop Demon Hunters* is officially expanding its reach into the merchandise world, made possible through the combined efforts of toy industry giants Hasbro and Mattel. This announcement marks a significant milestone for the franchise, which has already gained considerable attention for its upcoming Netflix film. For devotees of *Magic: The Gathering*, there’s an extra layer of good fortune—Hasbro has confirmed that a collaboration titled *Huntr/x* will arrive as part of the famous card game’s offerings, expected to debut in 2026.
During Hasbro’s recent third quarter investor call, CEO Chris Cocks revealed that *KPop Demon Hunters* would become part of the company’s prestigious *Secret Lair* collection—a special subset of *Magic: The Gathering* known for its limited-edition drops and pop-culture-infused collaborations. In his remarks, Cocks expressed optimism regarding the forthcoming release, sharing his confidence through a lighthearted comparison. He noted that if the company could successfully generate enthusiasm around collectible cards themed after *SpongeBob SquarePants*, then there was every reason to believe that one of Netflix’s most talked-about upcoming films would ignite even greater excitement among fans. His statement reflected both a business acumen and an understanding of how modern audiences respond to inventive cultural fusions.
The inclusion of *KPop Demon Hunters* within *Secret Lair* represents a relatively straightforward extension compared to launching a comprehensive, standalone deck like those previously inspired by properties such as *Spider-Man* or *Final Fantasy.* These larger collaborations have proven to be consistent commercial successes for Hasbro, helping bridge fandoms and bring entirely new audiences to the game. During the same investor call, Cocks reiterated that the *SpongeBob* *Secret Lair* set was among the best-performing releases in the line’s history, emphasizing how cleverly executed crossovers can transform both casual interest and collector enthusiasm into measurable global sales.
Considering the cultural momentum behind *KPop Demon Hunters*, it’s not difficult to see why Hasbro expects the new drop to resonate with fans so strongly. The Netflix film has demonstrated exceptional longevity and popularity—its re-release in theaters, not just a second but technically a third run, underscores the appetite for the franchise’s blend of vibrant animation, music, and mythology. At the same time, Hasbro’s decision to share key toy production responsibilities with Mattel is a strategic move, suggesting confidence that demand is likely to span multiple consumer markets. By the time the cards debut in 2026, the movie will have been deeply embedded in global entertainment discourse, quite possibly accumulating critical recognition, including potential Oscar nominations or even wins. Such prestige would inevitably enhance anticipation for the *Secret Lair* collection, giving it both cultural resonance and collectible significance.
As the collaboration between Hasbro, Mattel, and Netflix moves forward, more details are expected to emerge. Fans and collectors can look forward to future updates regarding the design and artwork of the special edition cards, which will undoubtedly blend the aesthetics of K-pop glamour with the imaginative visual language of *Magic: The Gathering.* Each card is likely to capture the contrast between musical exuberance and supernatural combat that defines *KPop Demon Hunters,* transforming that dynamic energy into a playable form. Further announcements will provide a more comprehensive look at how this fusion of music, fantasy, and gaming will unfold through Hasbro’s innovative *Secret Lair* line.
[via ICv2]
For readers eager to stay on top of related entertainment developments, be sure to explore coverage on upcoming releases across the *Marvel*, *Star Wars*, and *Star Trek* universes, along with insights into the evolving *DC Universe* on both film and television, and the continuing future of *Doctor Who*. Together, these interconnected expansions in genre storytelling reflect the growing synergy between major entertainment franchises and fan-driven gaming culture.
Sourse: https://gizmodo.com/expect-kpop-demon-hunters-in-magic-the-gathering-next-year-2000677167
