The 98th Academy Awards are set to be an unforgettable night for K-Pop fans worldwide. Producers of the Oscars have officially confirmed that the March 15, 2026 ceremony will feature a special “moment” celebrating the global pop culture sensation, KPop Demon Hunters. As Netflix’s most-watched original animated film ever, its impact on both the film and music industries has been undeniable, and the Academy is ready to honor its success with a spectacular live performance.
A Cinematic Tribute to K-Pop and Folklore
According to Oscars producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, the musical performances this year are inspired by powerful cultural phenomena. The KPop Demon Hunters segment will be much more than a standard song performance; it is designed as a cinematic tribute that explores the relationship between music and storytelling. The performance will include a stunning fusion of traditional Korean instrumentalists and dance, paying homage to the rich folklore and cultural inspiration behind the animated hit.
This dedicated moment aims to showcase why the film resonated so deeply with audiences around the world. By blending traditional Korean elements with modern K-Pop aesthetics, the Oscars stage will transform into a vibrant celebration of Korean culture, bringing the magical world of the film to life for millions of viewers tuning in globally.
EJAE, AUDREY NUNA, and REI AMI to Perform “Golden”
The highlight of the KPop Demon Hunters tribute will undoubtedly be the live performance of the film’s Oscar-nominated original song, “Golden”. The stage will be graced by the actual singing voices behind the film’s fictional, fierce girl group, HUNTR/X. Artists EJAE, AUDREY NUNA, and REI AMI will come together to deliver what promises to be an electrifying and historic performance.
Fans of the film and the artists have been eagerly anticipating this moment since the nominations were announced. The inclusion of “Golden” at the Oscars not only highlights the growing influence of K-Pop in mainstream Western media but also marks a significant milestone for animated film soundtracks. Sharing the spotlight with other major cinematic musical moments, such as the tribute to the record-breaking film Sinners, the KPop Demon Hunters performance is poised to be one of the most talked-about events of the evening.
References
[1] The Hollywood Reporter: Oscars Producers Detail Special Sinners, KPop Demon Hunter ‘Moments’
