KPop Demon Hunters Makes Oscars History with Best Original Song Victory
In a groundbreaking moment at the Academy Awards on March 15, 2026, the Netflix animated sensation KPop Demon Hunters made history by winning two Oscars, including Best Original Song for 'Golden', marking the first time a K-pop song has ever claimed this prestigious award.
A Golden Night for K-Pop and Animation
Released on Netflix in June 2025, KPop Demon Hunters has soared to become the streaming service's most-streamed film of all time. Its Oscar success further cements its legacy, as it also secured the award for Best Animated Feature, joining the hall of fame of Oscar-winning animated films. The dual victories highlight the film's cultural impact and artistic excellence, resonating with audiences globally.
Historic Win for 'Golden'
The song 'Golden', performed by the fictional trio HUNTR/X in the film, broke barriers by becoming the first K-pop track to win Best Original Song at the Oscars. During the ceremony, Ejae, one-third of HUNTR/X and a co-writer of the song, delivered a heartfelt speech upon accepting the award. "Growing up, people made fun of me for liking K-pop, but now everyone's singing our song and all the Korean lyrics, I'm so proud," she said, visibly emotional. "And I realized, like the song, this award is not about success, it’s about resilience, and I’m just so grateful to our team."
Memorable Performance and Audience Engagement
Ejae was joined by Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami, who provide the singing voices for HUNTR/X in the film, to perform 'Golden' live at the Oscars. In a nod to authentic K-pop concert experiences, the audience was given lightsticks, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere and immersing viewers in the vibrant culture of K-pop.
Exciting News for Fans: Sequel Announced
Adding to the excitement, it has just been confirmed that KPop Demon Hunters 2 is in development. Co-director Maggie Kang shared the news on social media, stating, "There's so much more to this world we have built and I'm excited to show you. This is only the beginning." This announcement has sparked anticipation among fans, suggesting that more Oscar-worthy content could be on the horizon.
The historic wins at the Oscars not only celebrate the achievements of KPop Demon Hunters but also signify a broader recognition of K-pop on the global stage, paving the way for future innovations in music and animation.
