'Golden' Wins Oscars and Grammys, Becoming Netflix’s Most-Watched Title Ever

Netflix’s animated film “KPop Demon Hunters” secured consecutive victories at the Oscars and Grammys, further demonstrating the global influence of K-pop culture. The film took home two Oscars for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song, while its theme song “Golden” won a Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media.

Released on Netflix on June 20, 2025, “KPop Demon Hunters” follows a story in which the K-pop girl group HUNTR/X (comprising Rumi, Mira, and Zoey) acts as demon hunters who protect the world through the power of music. HUNTR/X features former K-pop trainee EJAE alongside Korean-American actresses Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami as voice actors. “Golden” achieved a historic milestone by remaining at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for eight consecutive weeks, marking the first time a fictional or real K-pop group has held this position.

By August 26, 2025, the film had become Netflix’s most-watched title ever, surpassing 325 million views. In addition to “Golden,” four other tracks from the film’s soundtrack—“How It's Done” (ranked 10th), Saja Boys’ “Your Idol” (ranked 4th), and “Soda Pop” (ranked 5th)—also made it onto the Billboard Hot 100.

Co-directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, along with producer Michelle Wong, became the first Koreans to win Oscars in the animated film category. EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami were also named Billboard 2026 Women of the Year. Beyond these awards, the film received widespread recognition at international film festivals, including two Golden Globe Awards and two Critics’ Choice Awards.

Kevin Woo, the voice actor who portrayed the mysterious character Saja in the film, is a former member of U-KISS. After the film’s release, he composed music for the “Dead by Daylight” game collaboration “All-Kill: Comeback” and appeared in the music video for his new song “No Escape.”

Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation officially confirmed the production of a sequel in March 2026. Netflix is currently in negotiations with concert promoters for a global tour scheduled to take place next year, with venues capable of holding 10,000 to 20,000 fans. The company has indicated its intention to provide tens of millions of dollars as an upfront guarantee.