EJAE, the singer and songwriter behind the hit “Golden,” made history at the 2026 Golden Globes by becoming the first Korean-American to win the award for Best Original Song – Motion Picture. During her acceptance speech, she shared an inspiring message about perseverance and self-acceptance, emphasizing that “it’s never too late to shine like you were born to be.”
Reflecting on her journey from a K-pop trainee to the success of “Golden,” EJAE recalled the challenges she faced over a decade of hard work and rejection. “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 wasn’t good enough,” she said. Music became her refuge, ultimately leading to her role in creating a song that resonates with many.
Accompanied by her co-songwriter Mark Sonnenblick and producers 24 and IDO, EJAE dedicated the award to those who have faced similar struggles. She stated, “This award goes to people who’ve had their doors closed at them, and I can confidently say rejection is redirection, so never give up.” The awards ceremony also featured her and her fellow performers, EJAE, Rei Ami, and Audrey Nuna, donning matching black gowns on the red carpet.
The animated film KPop Demon Hunters, which features “Golden,” also took home the award for Best Motion Picture – Animated, adding to its accolades as Netflix’s most-watched movie ever. The film was nominated alongside other major animated features, marking a significant achievement for the K-pop community and global representation.
As the awards season progresses, KPop Demon Hunters is poised for further recognition, with “Golden” earning four Grammy nominations, including Song of the Year, making EJAE the first Korean-American female songwriter to receive such a nomination. She expressed her excitement for the representation this brings to young viewers, further emphasizing the importance of diverse visibility in the music industry.
KPop Demon Hunters continues to capture audiences, transitioning from a celebrated animated feature to an in-demand live performance act, having made appearances on notable shows. The film’s success not only marks a pivotal moment for its creators but also serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring artists everywhere.
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