1 September 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : Varun Tej-starrer Korean Kanakaraju is set to make its digital debut after its theatrical release earlier this month. The Telugu horror comedy will begin streaming on Netflix from September 4, 2026.
Directed by Merlapaka Gandhi, the film stars Varun Tej, Ritika Nayak and comedian Satya in key roles. It combines supernatural elements, comedy and action with an unusual Indo-Korean storyline.
When Will Korean Kanakaraju Release on OTT?
Korean Kanakaraju will premiere on Netflix on September 4, 2026, following its theatrical run that began on August 7. Netflix’s catalogue listing and multiple reports have confirmed the streaming date.
The film is expected to be available in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada and Malayalam, giving audiences across India access to the horror comedy in multiple language versions.
Where Can You Watch Korean Kanakaraju?
The movie will be available exclusively on Netflix for its OTT release.
Watch Korean Kanakaraju on Netflix
The Netflix listing describes the film as a supernatural horror comedy in which Kanakaraju becomes possessed by a Korean spirit and must protect his family while uncovering the spirit’s mysterious past.
What Is Korean Kanakaraju About?
Varun Tej plays Kanakaraju, a short-tempered but carefree young man from Rayalaseema who runs a traditional Bhajana troupe while looking after his family.
His life takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious vessel containing the remains of a Korean man arrives in his village. After a strange incident, Kanakaraju consumes its contents and becomes possessed by the Korean man’s spirit.
The possession gives him unusual abilities, particularly when Korea is mentioned. His newfound powers include extraordinary speed and martial-arts and sword-fighting skills.
Ritika Nayak and Satya’s Roles
Ritika Nayak plays Chaitra, Kanakaraju’s love interest, who is fascinated by Korean culture and dreams of travelling to Korea.
Satya plays Kanakaraju’s friend Krishnappa, who becomes part of the bizarre journey surrounding the Korean spirit.
The trio eventually travels to South Korea as they attempt to uncover the spirit’s unfinished mission and put an end to Kanakaraju’s possession.
Horror, Comedy and Korean Elements
The film attempts to blend rural Telugu storytelling with Korean cultural and visual elements.
Rather than following a conventional horror narrative, Korean Kanakaraju uses supernatural possession as the starting point for comedy, action and a cross-cultural adventure.
Satya’s comic timing and Varun Tej’s performance have been highlighted among the film’s notable elements following its theatrical release.
Who Directed and Produced the Film?
Korean Kanakaraju is written and directed by Merlapaka Gandhi.
The film was produced by UV Creations in association with First Frame Entertainments. Music and background score are composed by S Thaman, with cinematography by Manojh Reddy and editing by Satyaa G.
When Was Korean Kanakaraju Released in Theatres?
The film arrived in cinemas on August 7, 2026.
Its theatrical run generated attention because of its unusual combination of horror, comedy and Korean-inspired storytelling. The OTT release now gives viewers who missed its theatrical run an opportunity to watch the film at home.
Why the OTT Release Is Significant
The Netflix premiere could help Korean Kanakaraju reach a wider audience beyond the Telugu-speaking theatrical market.
With dubbed versions in Hindi, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam, the film is positioned to reach viewers across different parts of India who may be interested in its unusual supernatural-comedy premise.