KPop Demon Hunters Wins Vanguard Award at Unforgettable Gala

Netflix’s animated series “KPop Demon Hunters” received the Vanguard Award at the 23rd Unforgettable Awards. Hosted jointly by GoldenTV and Character Media, the ceremony took place on March 7 at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. Arden Cho and Ji-young Yoo, who portrays Zoey in “KPop Demon Hunters,” stepped onto the stage to share their joy over the win. Both actors attended in person to receive their trophies.

The Unforgettable Awards have a history spanning over 20 years. It is recognized as a major event in the entertainment industry that honors the excellence of Asian and Pacific Islander artists. Organizers of the ceremony stated that it was designed as a platform to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Asian and Pacific Islander artists while expanding opportunities and visibility for future generations.

The Vanguard Award was presented to the “KPop Demon Hunters” team by the cast of Netflix’s animated series “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” This award is given in recognition of innovation and cultural impact within the industry.

Various Asian and Pacific Islander artists from different fields attended and won awards at this ceremony. Director Chloé Zhao received the Global Icon Award, which was presented by Charles Melton. Bowen Yang from “The Wedding Banquet” won the Actor in Film Award, delivered by Atsuko Okatsuka. Lawrence Shou from “Rosemead” received the Breakout in Film Award, awarded by Izaac Wang. Park Chan-wook, director of “No Other Choice,” won the Director Award, with Kieu Chinh presenting the prize. Daniel Dae Kim from the TV series “Butterfly” won the Actor in Television Award, given by Reina Hardesty. Park Chan-wook and Daniel Dae Kim delivered acceptance speeches via pre-recorded messages.

During the ceremony, live performances were held by Eric Nam (The Traitors), magician Kevin Li (America’s Got Talent), singer-songwriter Peng Peng, and Sinéad Harnett. Additional speakers included Fala Chen (Ballad of a Small Player), Chrishell Stause (Selling Sunset, The Traitors), Lewis Tan (Cobra Kai, Mortal Kombat II), Kevin Woo (KPop Demon Hunters), and Randall Park (The Residence). The ceremony will be broadcast live on GoldenTV starting at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. PT on Friday, March 13, with an official red carpet pre-show beginning at 5:30 p.m., hosted by comedian John Dela Cruz.