A historic milestone has been reached in the global music scene, as EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami of the sensational “KPop Demon Hunters” group have officially added Grammy winner to their growing list of accolades. Their powerful track “Golden” has clinched the coveted Best Song Written for Visual Media award—a first for K-pop at the Grammys, and a moment long awaited by fans worldwide. For an industry that’s thrived on fan devotion and top-tier charts, this win finally brings Grammy prestige to K-pop’s dynamic artistry.
A fierce field, an unprecedented triumph
The anticipation was high as “Golden” went head-to-head against formidable tracks like “As Alive As You Need Me To Be” by Nine Inch Nails, Elton John and Brandi Carlile’s “Never Too Late,” and “Sinners” from Leonard Denisenko, Rodarius Green, and Travis. But it was the emotional blend and captivating storytelling in “Golden”—brought to life by EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami—that won the day.
Several key facts for this Grammy moment include:
- “Golden” marks the first-ever K-pop song to win at the Grammys.
- The song was co-written by a powerhouse team: EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, DO, 24, and Teddy.
- This year, “Golden” received four Grammy nominations, signaling K-pop’s arrival on music’s biggest night.
The triumph feels all the more significant after previous near-misses: BLACKPINK’s Rosé scored three nominations for “APT.” featuring Bruno Mars, and BTS—K-pop’s global juggernaut—earned five nods in their career without securing a win.
From Netflix hit to Billboard royalty: the KPop Demon Hunters phenomenon
Not only has “Golden” charmed the Grammy panel, but it’s also served as the keystone track for the film “KPop Demon Hunters,” which has become an unmissable streaming phenomenon. Released on Netflix in June, the film's audience numbers soared, making it the most-viewed movie in the United States for 2025 with a staggering 20.5 billion minutes streamed, according to Nielsen’s year-end data. That translates to about 207 million full movie plays—a testament to its magnetic appeal.
The musical backbone of the film comprises three original songs:
- “Golden”
- “Your Idol”
- “Soda Pop”
All three tracks have secured spots on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing the group’s versatile, cross-genre sound. The song “Golden” is not only a Grammy victor; it’s also a front-runner for Best Original Song at the Oscars, after bagging honors at the Golden Globes and more.
The emotional core of ‘Golden’: more than just a pop anthem
What truly sets “Golden” apart isn’t just its danceable beats or catchy lyrics. At the heart of the song lies a raw, confessional vulnerability. “Golden” begins as an aspirational anthem for the trio, desperate to shield their world from supernatural threats. But by the song’s bridge, it transforms into an intimate self-reckoning, resonating with anyone who has ever questioned their place in the spotlight.
As executive music producer Ian Eisendrath explains, “In a traditional film musical structure, this is the ‘I want’ song.” He elaborates, “Suddenly the song goes from being this inspirational pop to totally sotto voce—a little bit darker. She’s just looking at herself and realizing how completely isolated she is. She’s frightened, but then she girds herself back up. Where ‘Golden’ is the ‘I want’ song for all three girls, this bridge is a quick opportunity to check in on what Rumi wants, which is to seal the Honmoon so the scars go away and all the demon in her is gone.”
What’s next for ‘Golden’ and KPop’s global wave?
With a Grammy to its name, a possible Oscar on the horizon, and consistent Billboard dominance, “Golden” has already secured its legacy in the music world. And with performances slated for the upcoming Oscars, the journey is far from over.
The rise of “KPop Demon Hunters” is a testament to music’s ability to transcend borders and connect stories across cultures and genres. As the world tunes in, one can’t help but wonder: What new boundaries will K-pop shatter next?