Oscars Glory for Kpop Demon Hunters: Wins Best Song and Best Animated Film

The animated sensation Kpop Demon Hunters, which follows supernatural K-pop stars battling otherworldly foes, has won two Oscars for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.

The victories add to an impressive list of accolades for the film, which has captivated both children and adults since its Netflix release last summer.

Accepting the award for Best Animated Feature were directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, along with producer Michelle LM Wong. Kang, a first-time Oscar nominee, dedicated the win “to Korea and to Koreans everywhere,” adding, “For those who look like me, I’m so sorry it took so long for us to see ourselves in a film like this. But it’s here now, and future generations won’t have to wait.”

Kpop Demon Hunters tells the story of a K-pop girl group using their voices to fight demons, including a soul-stealing boy band from the underworld. Its soundtrack has dominated global music charts and become a fixture in malls and public spaces worldwide.

The film’s voice actors Ejae, Rei Ami, and Audrey Nuna appeared on the red carpet in dazzling gold gowns, referencing the hit song “Golden”, which won Best Original Song. Ejae, visibly moved, said, “Growing up, people teased me for loving K-pop. But now everyone is singing our song Korean lyrics and all and I’m so proud.”

During the Oscars ceremony, the trio performed “Golden” to a crowd waving colorful lightsticks and LED bracelets, recreating the energy of a live K-pop concert.

Before Sunday’s Oscars, Kpop Demon Hunters had already received top Hollywood honors, including Golden Globes for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song, and last month, “Golden” became the first K-pop song ever to win a Grammy.