K-Pop Makes Oscar History as Golden Wins Best Original Song
In a groundbreaking moment at the 2026 Academy Awards, the song Golden from the animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters has clinched the Oscar for best original song. This victory marks the first time a K-pop track has ever won in this prestigious category, solidifying South Korea's growing influence in global entertainment.
Historic Win for South Korean Artists
The award was presented to the song's creators, including performers Rei Ami, Ejae, and Audrey Nuna, as well as producers Ido and Teddy Park. At 24 years old, Ejae became one of the youngest winners in this category, delivering an emotional acceptance speech that highlighted the significance of this achievement for Korean representation. However, co-writer Mark Sonnenblick was unfortunately cut off mid-speech during the ceremony, adding a dramatic twist to the evening.
This Oscar is the second win for K-Pop Demon Hunters at the 2026 awards, following its earlier triumph in the best animated feature category. Upon receiving that award, co-writer and co-director Maggie Kang expressed heartfelt sentiments, stating, "For those of you who look like me, I'm so sorry that it took so long to see us in a movie like this, but it is here. That means the next generations don't have to go longing. This is for Korea and Koreans everywhere."
Defeating Strong Competition
Golden faced stiff competition from other nominated songs, including tracks from films such as Sinners, Train Dreams, Viva Verdi!, and Diane Warren: Relentless. The latter nomination extended Diane Warren's record-breaking Oscars losing streak, as she failed to convert her 17th nomination into a win. Warren, 69, has been a perennial contender since her first nomination in 1987 for Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now from Mannequin, with eight consecutive nominations between 2018 and 2025.
Her illustrious career includes penning hits like Aerosmith's I Don't Want to Miss a Thing from Armageddon and Lady Gaga's Til It Happens to You from The Hunting Ground. In 2022, Warren was honored with an honorary Oscar, but this year, her song Dear Me, performed by Kesha in the documentary Diane Warren: Relentless, was ultimately overshadowed by the K-pop sensation.
A Cultural Milestone
The victory of Golden not only celebrates musical excellence but also represents a significant cultural shift, showcasing the global appeal and artistic merit of K-pop. As the entertainment industry continues to diversify, this win underscores the importance of representation and innovation in film and music, paving the way for future generations of artists from South Korea and beyond.
