The 98th Academy Awards in 2026 delivered a historic moment for K-pop and animation when the song “Golden” from the Netflix film KPop Demon Hunters took home the Oscar for Best Original Song. This victory marked the first time a K-pop track has ever won in the category, celebrated by a talented team of songwriters: EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo, and Teddy Park.
The win was a major highlight of the ceremony, especially as KPop Demon Hunters—directed by Maggie Kang—also claimed Best Animated Feature. Kang dedicated her acceptance to Korea and Koreans everywhere, expressing gratitude while apologizing for how long it took for such recognition to arrive.
However, the joy of the Best Original Song win was marred by an abrupt interruption during the acceptance speech. As the songwriting team took the stage, EJAE began speaking, sharing heartfelt thanks for the collaborative effort behind the film and song. She emphasized the hard work involved and expressed deep gratitude to the directors and everyone who contributed.
But as Yu Han Lee started to speak—thanking his family, fellow Idol members, and Teddy Park—the broadcast cut to commercials. Mark Sonnenblick never got a chance to speak on stage at all. The group stood in visible disbelief as the audience erupted in boos over the sudden cutoff.
The remaining songwriters finished their remarks backstage, where they elaborated on their emotions and appreciation.
EJAE reflected: “We feel very grateful and very honored. We all worked so hard, and this is such a collaborative effort; we just need to thank our directors. They created a beautiful film. Everyone was a part of it, and we are just so happy that the hard work paid off.” She also gave special thanks to fellow singers Rei Ami and Audrey Nuna, who performed the track.
Yu Han Lee added: “I would like to thank all our families, my fellow Idol members, and Teddy Park. This is an incredible honor.”
Mark Sonnenblick highlighted the song’s message of unity, quoting its lyrics: “It’s not ‘I’m going up, up, up.’ It’s ‘We’re going up, up, up.’ And that’s part of the reason that we’re [here] right now. So, thanks to the fans, too, who have loved this movie and made it into what it is and the soundtrack.”
The incident sparked widespread criticism online, with fans and observers calling the cutoff disrespectful—especially given the historic nature of the win for K-pop and Asian representation in Hollywood. Some labeled it as tone-deaf, particularly amid the film’s themes of resilience and breaking barriers.
“Golden”—with its empowering lyrics about collective rise and perseverance—resonated globally, boosted by the film’s popularity and fan support. The animated feature, blending K-pop culture with demon-hunting action, has already greenlit a sequel set for 2029.
Despite the mishap, the team’s achievement stands as a groundbreaking triumph, proving that diverse voices and hard work can shine on the biggest stage. Congratulations to EJAE and the entire “Golden” team on this well-deserved Oscar win.
