Netflix's animated film 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' celebrated a double victory at the 98th Academy Awards, winning both Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.
'K-Pop Demon Hunters' is an action-fantasy animation that tells the story of K-pop superstars Lumi, Mira, and Joy, who secretly protect the world behind their glamorous stage personas. The film's success at the 98th Academy Awards, where it won Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song, marks a significant achievement.
The film had been a strong contender at various award ceremonies, including the 53rd Annie Awards for Best Animation and Best Director, the 31st Critics' Choice Awards for Best Animation and Best Original Song, the 83rd Golden Globe Awards for Best Animation and Best Original Song, and the 68th Grammy Awards for Best Original Soundtrack. Its accolades made it a prominent candidate for the 98th Academy Awards, held on the 15th of the month in the U.S., where it ultimately secured its wins. The Academy Awards, the most prestigious event in the film industry, once again highlighted 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' as a standout production of 2025.
Director Maggie Kang, upon receiving the award, expressed, "I want to apologize to those who look like me for taking so long to see ourselves in such films. But I'm here now, and it means the next generation won't have to wait as long. I dedicate this award to Korea and all Koreans around the world." Lee Jae added, "I was teased for liking K-pop as a child, but now everyone sings our songs in Korean. I believe this award is about resilience, not just success. Thank you so much," he said emotionally.
The 'Golden' performance at the ceremony began with a reaper-themed act reminiscent of a scene from the film, followed by traditional Korean music, pansori, and a dance performance by dancers in hanbok, filling the Academy Awards venue with the splendor of Korean culture. The live performance of 'Golden' by Lee Jae, Audrey Nuna, and Ray Ami, accompanied by Hollywood stars like Emma Stone, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Gwyneth Paltrow waving light sticks, evoked a K-pop concert scene, showcasing the global appeal and strength of 'K-Pop Demon Hunters'.
Backstage Q&A with 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' Director Maggie Kang.
Q. What does this award symbolize, and what does it mean to you personally?
I'm incredibly proud of Korean films and films about Korea. As a producer, one of my most emotional moments was watching Director Bong Joon-ho win the Oscar for 'Parasite'. Winning Best Animated Feature with a film that embodies Korean culture feels like winning in both fields. I didn't want to disappoint Koreans, so I'm both proud and relieved.
Q. How do you hope tonight's win will be remembered in the history of K-pop and Korean content? And as a creator, how do you view this moment where K-pop has reached the Academy through animation and film?
I've been a fan of K-pop since it first emerged in the '90s, and seeing it loved by audiences worldwide is deeply meaningful to me. It's an honor to capture every aspect of our culture that I love in a film, and it's significant as a Korean producer that it's embraced and loved by other cultures globally. I hope more films exploring diverse cultures will emerge in animation, as such attempts are truly needed in the field.
Comments and Backstage Q&A with 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' Lee Jae, IDO, and 24.
Q. Message to Korean fans
Lee Jae: I'm so grateful to the fans in Korea. It's truly an honor, and I dedicate this song and film to Korea. Thank you so much.
IDO: Although we're abroad now, we often work with Koreans and create music in Korea. I'm thankful and happy that the result of our hard work, including everyone here and at our company, is an Academy Award.
Q. How did it feel to perform on the Academy stage with such enthusiasm?
Lee Jae: I was very nervous, but it was an honor to perform on such a grand stage as the Academy. I'm just grateful. Especially as a Korean-American woman, standing on this stage and experiencing our culture and traditions is truly amazing. The traditional Korean music at the beginning of the performance made me particularly proud. Growing up in America, I sometimes wanted to hide my Korean identity due to fear of bullying over food or culture. But now, I'm incredibly proud of my Korean identity. During rehearsals, I could truly connect with our roots, and I'm just so thankful.
Q. How does it feel to be an Academy Award winner?
Lee Jae: I'm grateful, honored, and can't believe it. Everyone worked so hard, and this song is the result of true collaboration. I want to thank Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans for creating a beautiful film. Everyone, including the directors, participated in making this song, and I'm so happy that everyone's efforts have paid off. I also want to thank Audrey Nuna and Ray Ami.
Q. Any unspoken thanks?
IDO: I want to thank my family, 24, fellow IDO members, and Teddy Park. It's truly an unbelievable honor.
Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr