As Netflix prepares to unveil its first permanent entertainment venue, Netflix House, in Philadelphia on November 12, the company is embracing the explosive popularity of its recent hit “KPop Demon Hunters.” With plans already in place, Netflix has swiftly incorporated elements from the show into the 100,000-square-foot space at King of Prussia mall, which aims to blend shopping and entertainment.
Marian Lee, Netflix’s chief marketing officer, shared insights about the challenges and creativity involved in making last-minute modifications to Netflix House. “We had everything planned, but a hit like ‘KPop’ couldn’t be left out of such a flagship space,” she explained in an interview at the Tudum Theater located within the venue. This has led to exciting new additions, including a large-scale mural featuring Derpy, the beloved blue tiger from “KPop Demon Hunters,” designed by local artist Emily White.
In addition to the mural, Netflix House will feature a fiberglass Derpy sculpture, creating a fun photo opportunity for visitors. The interior design has also been influenced by “KPop,” with various thematic elements included throughout the venue.
While Netflix House will host various ticketed experiences tied to its familiar intellectual properties, such as “One Piece” and “Wednesday,” Lee emphasized the goal of ensuring fans of “KPop Demon Hunters” would find connections to the property throughout their visit. Ticketed experiences range in price, designed to target different demographics and ensure accessibility.
Looking ahead, Netflix plans to replicate this model in other major cities, with upcoming openings in Dallas next month and in Las Vegas in 2027. Each venue will reflect local culture and interests, incorporating unique merchandise and experiences tailored to the community.
Lee indicated that while Netflix isn’t competing directly with established theme parks like Disney, the aim is to cultivate a dedicated fandom that resonates with local audiences. “We want to create a lasting connection with our fans that transcends individual shows,” she noted.
Furthermore, Lee reaffirmed the company’s commitment to community engagement, highlighting the local job creation associated with the venue. With 260 positions filled during construction and an expectation of over 300 employees once open, Netflix House seeks to become an integral part of the Philadelphia fabric.
As Netflix continues its expansion of themed attractions, the flexibility of the Netflix House concept allows for agile adaptations based on audience feedback. This approach not only fosters fan loyalty but also creates room for continuous innovation and fresh experiences, ensuring that each visit is unique and memorable.
With the excitement building ahead of the grand opening, Netflix House Philadelphia is poised to become a vibrant hub for fans and families to celebrate their favorite shows, fostering a deeper connection between content and community.