Recently, I created a video on TikTok expressing my concerns about the increasingly popular kids’ cartoon on Netflix, K-Pop Demon Hunters. Several of the therapists in my practice had mentioned that their young clients were becoming obsessed with the movie. As I began researching it, I had concerns. However, my concerns grew even more after the wave of attention and hateful messages and comments I received in response to the video.
Some of the more mild comments from users accused me of “scaremongering,” brushing off my concerns with comments like, “demons aren’t real,” or comparing my warning to the so-called “satanic panic.” Others claimed the movie was harmless fun, even suggesting it was “about redemption, forgiveness, and love.” Yet a few voices revealed deeper concerns–one admitted, “My son started asking about demons after watching it,” while another shared, “I thought it was harmless until my daughter said she sees dark things in her room at night.” These aren’t just differences of opinion; they’re evidence of the very confusion and fear I’ve been warning about.
First, let me share my concerns about this movie and, more broadly, the media’s influence on younger generations today. Witchcraft, divination, occult practices, and new age ideologies are being glamorized and presented in ways that children and adolescents believe are harmless. This is far from the truth. We are witnessing the impact these dangerous practices have on our clients.
We are seeing an increase in identity confusion, sleep paralysis, reports of “seeing dark things,” and even hearing voices identified as “evil.” As a believer in the Most High God, a Christian, I know now more than ever why He instructs us not to engage in deeds of darkness but rather to expose them. This isn’t just an individual warning; it’s a charge to parents, leaders, and counselors to recognize and call out the things that are endangering our children.
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” – Ephesians 5:11, NIV
Many argue that they personally have not experienced negative experiences or consequences from dabbling in the darker arts mentioned. Some even believe they are helping. Let me be very clear: whenever you engage with darkness, there is a spiritual exchange taking place. You may not recognize or experience it now, but you will in time.
Jesus came to set us free and offers the gift of salvation to all who believe, bringing us out of darkness into light. The enemies of God may tempt you with something seemingly positive in the beginning, but it is only a loan. When they come to collect, the cost will be high. Do not let this become the story of your children.
As the tragedies rooted in darkness continue to rage on – the deaths of Irina Zaretska and Charlie Kirk, wars, hateful exchanges on social media, and countless other examples – we must recognize the dark forces fueling many mental health struggles. In Genesis 3, satan sought to destroy humanity. In Genesis 6, the fallen sons of God sought to pervert it. In Genesis 11, the fallen ones sought to usurp the Most High and lead people to follow false gods that brought division and destruction. These are not just biblical accounts; they reveal the same enemies who are still at work today, seeking to steal, kill, and destroy.
Rebuke the enemies of God. Seek first the Kingdom of God. Love others boldly and teach them to do the same.
Respectfully,
Dr. Natalie
