‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Breaks New Ground at the Grammys
In a groundbreaking achievement for K-pop, “KPop Demon Hunters” secured its first victory at the Grammy Awards. This animated film has gained immense popularity, transforming fictional K-pop bands HUNTR/X and Saja Boys into sensational stars.
Plot Overview and Key Characters
The film’s narrative follows three members of HUNTR/X: Rumi, portrayed by Arden Cho, Mira, played by May Hong, and Zoey, represented by Ji-young Yoo. Their mission is to prevent demons from infiltrating the human world, using the power of music.
Notable Productions and Achievements
Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, “KPop Demon Hunters” premiered on Netflix in June. It marked a significant milestone by becoming the streaming platform’s first No. 1 box-office title after its theatrical release last year. The film’s score also achieved a spot on Billboard’s charts as the highest-charting soundtrack of 2025.
Chart-Topping Success
- The film features hit songs like “Golden” and “Your Idol.”
- These tracks reached the top of U.S. Spotify charts.
Grammy Awards and Nominations
At the Grammy Awards, “KPop Demon Hunters” was nominated in four categories, including the prestigious song of the year. The song “Golden” won an award for best song written for visual media during the Premiere Ceremony. The songwriting team for “Golden” included Ejae, Park Hong Jun, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo, and Mark Sonnenblick.
Historical Impact
Expressing pride, Ejae remarked on the significance of the award, especially as a Korean American. Rei Ami encouraged aspiring artists to “dream bigger than you think you need to,” while Audrey Nuna emphasized the importance of embracing one’s true self.
Early Award Season Wins
“KPop Demon Hunters” set the tone for Hollywood’s awards season by earning two wins at the Critics’ Choice Awards for best animated feature and best song. It also won at the Golden Globes for best animated motion picture and best original song.
Future Prospects
While the film did not win for best compilation soundtrack for visual media at the Grammys, it remains a contender for best pop duo/group performance and song of the year.
