AceShowbiz - The Netflix hit KPop Demon Hunters appeared at the 2026 Oscars. The fictional group HUNTR/X, comprised of EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, performed the song "Golden" during the awards ceremony on Sunday.

In keeping with the vibrant KPop tradition, attendees waved glowing light sticks as the trio, dressed in white outfits, performed from center stage. Their performance included a dance routine featuring performers twirling golden flags synchronized with the rhythm of the song.

Though primarily released on Netflix, KPop Demon Hunters qualified for Oscar consideration thanks to its limited theatrical run. This release helped the film compete in major categories during the ceremony.

Earlier in the evening, KPop Demon Hunters secured the award for Best Animated Feature. Key figures from the film, including co-writer and co-director Maggie Kang, producer Michelle L.M. Wong, and co-director Chris Appelhans, accepted the honor. In a speech, Kang expressed gratitude to the Academy and fans, emphasizing the importance of representation. "I’m so sorry that it took us so long to see us in a movie like this, but it is here, and that means that the next generations don't have to go longing. This is for Korea and for Koreans everywhere," she said.

The film also won Best Original Song for "Golden," a category that featured competition. Other nominees included Diane Warren’s "Dear Me," marking her 17th nomination and ninth consecutive year in the category, as well as tracks from the films Sinners, Train Dreams, and Viva Verdi!

Before the Oscars, the HUNTR/X trio performed "Golden" at several events, such as the 2026 BAFTA Awards, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. Their work garnered multiple nominations and wins throughout the awards season, including five Grammy nominations with a win for Best Song Written for Visual Media, and three Golden Globe nominations where they won two awards: Best Original Song - Motion Picture and Best Motion Picture, Animated.

EJAE shared a reflection at the Golden Globes when she became the first Korean-American to receive an award there. She revealed the decade-long journey to becoming a K-pop idol, overcoming rejection and disappointment, and ultimately finding strength through music. "I was rejected and disappointed that my voice wasn’t good enough, so I leaned on songs and music to get through it. Now, I’m here as a singer and a songwriter," she stated.

The success of KPop Demon Hunters and its musical talents at the 2026 Oscars marks recognition for Korean culture in global entertainment.