The hype behind “K-pop Demon Hunters” hasn’t died down, and their recent wins at the 2025 Golden Globes are proof. The movie won Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song at the ceremony – the latter of which prompted a touching speech from EJAE.
The 83rd Golden Globe Awards took place earlier today (12th January 2026, Monday, MYT), honouring the best in film and television over the past year. For “K-pop Demon Hunters” fans, the ceremony is also significant as the film and its chart-topping soundtrack received nominations for Best Motion Picture – Animated, Best Original Song and Cinematic and Box Office Achievement.
The movie took home two wins during the night, for Best Motion Picture – Animated and Best Original Song. For the Best Motion Picture win, directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, and producer Michelle Wong accepted the award on the film’s behalf. During their speech, the three thanked the fans and the public for supporting the movie.
However, it was EJAE’s speech during the film’s Best Original Song win for “Golden” that sparked the most reactions. EJAE co-wrote the song with Mark Sonnenblick, 24, Ido and Teddy Park, in addition to lending her voice to the track as the singing voice of Rumi. At the event, she accepted the award alongside Mark and producer Lee Hee-joon.
During her speech, EJAE tearfully recalled her struggles in the K-pop industry, saying, “When I was a little girl, I worked tirelessly for 10 years to fill one dream, to become a K-pop idol, and I was rejected, and disappointed that my voice isn’t good enough.” She continued, “I’m so glad to be part of a song that is helping other girls, other boys and everyone of all ages to get through their hardship to accept themselves.”
The speech brought a wave of emotions from the audience and netizens around the world. Many celebrated “Golden”’s win, saying that EJAE deserves the recognition she’s receiving for her work. Many also noted that the song is well on its way to winning more awards, even possibly an Oscar and a Grammy.
We extend our congratulations to the “K-pop Demon Hunters” team and the team behind the soundtrack. Perhaps we’ll continue to see more wins as the awards season carries on. Watch EJAE’s acceptance speech below:
@imdb “Rejection is redirection…never give up.” 🥹💛 EJAE accepts the award for Best Original Song, Motion Picture at the #GoldenGlobes for “Golden.” #KPopDemonHunters
Sources: Variety, The Korea Times
