Netflix’s animated film KPop Demon Hunters has taken home two trophies at the 98th Academy Awards, winning Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.
Director Maggie Kang delivered an emotional message while accepting the award on stage.
“To all the fans who got us here and for all of those who look like me, I am so sorry that it took us so long to see us in a movie like this. But it is here, and that means that the next generations don’t have to go longing. This is for Korea and for Koreans everywhere,” she said.
Artist EJAE also reflected on the journey behind the music.
“Growing up, people made fun of me for liking K-pop. Now everyone is singing our song, and in all of the Korean lyrics. I’m so proud,” she said. “And I realized this award isn’t about success. It’s about resilience.”
Following the ceremony, Maggie Kang spoke about what the win means for Korean storytelling.
“I am incredibly proud of Korean films and stories about Korea,” she said backstage. “One of the most emotional moments for me as a producer was watching Bong Joon Ho win the Oscar for ‘Parasite.’ Winning Best Animated Feature with a film rooted in Korean culture almost feels like taking home trophies in two different fields.”
She added that she hopes the success of the film opens the door for more culturally diverse animated stories in the future.
“I’ve been a K-pop fan since the 1990s, when the genre first began gaining momentum. Seeing it now loved by audiences around the world means so much to me. Being able to include so many parts of Korean culture in this film and see it embraced globally is incredibly meaningful,” she shared. “I hope we continue to see more films in animation that explore a wide range of cultures. I believe efforts like this are especially important in the animation space.”
EJAE, IDO, and 24 also shared their gratitude with Korean fans.
“Thank you so much to the fans in Korea,” EJAE said. “It is truly an honor, and we dedicate both this song and this film to Korea.”
IDO echoed that sentiment. “Even though we’re currently working abroad, we collaborate closely with many Korean artists. The fact that all of our hard work together led to an Academy Award is something we are deeply grateful for.”
EJAE also reflected on performing on the Oscars stage. “I was very nervous, but it was an incredible honor to perform on such a huge stage,” she said. “As a Korean American woman, being able to stand there and share our culture and traditions was truly meaningful.”
She noted that the performance opened with traditional Korean music. “That moment made me especially proud. Growing up in the United States, I sometimes felt like I had to hide parts of my identity. But now I feel so proud to be Korean.”
Still taking in the moment, EJAE added, “It still feels unbelievable. Everyone worked incredibly hard, and this song was the result of real collaboration. I want to thank directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans for creating such a beautiful film. Everyone, including the directors, took part in the process of making this song, and I am so happy to see all of that effort come to life. I also want to give a special thank you to Audrey and Rei Ami.”
KPop Demon Hunters, now a two-time Academy Award winner, is currently streaming on Netflix.
>> K-Pop Takes Hollywood by Storm—Netflix’s K Pop Demon Hunters Becomes an Oscar Favorite
In the meantime, watch trending K-dramas for free on Amasian TV.
Source: Netflix
