Netflix's 'K-pop Demon Hunters' is a Major 2026 Oscar Contender
The hit Netflix animation 'K-pop Demon Hunters' is making waves as a potential nominee for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song at the 2026 Oscars. Here's the scoop.
Could a K-pop-themed animated movie take home an Oscar? The idea isn’t far-fetched. Netflix’s explosive hit, K-pop Demon Hunters, has become a global phenomenon and is now being seriously discussed as a major contender for the 2026 Academy Awards.
Released in June 2025, the musical fantasy tells the story of a chart-topping K-pop girl group, Huntr/x, whose members lead double lives as demon hunters, blending slick action with Korean mythology. The film quickly became Netflix’s most-watched original animated film ever, earning a stunning 97% on Rotten Tomatoes. Now, it has its sights set on Hollywood’s biggest prize.
Two Big Oscar Nominations on the Horizon
The buzz, highlighted by industry publications like Variety, points to two specific categories where K-pop Demon Hunters has a strong chance:
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Best Animated Feature: With its unique blend of 2D and 3D animation, a compelling story, and massive cultural impact, the film is a frontrunner. Netflix is reportedly launching a significant awards campaign to secure the nomination.
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Best Original Song: This might be its strongest shot. The movie’s lead single, “Golden,” has become a legitimate global hit. Performed by Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami (the voices of Huntr/x), the track soared to #1 on the Billboard Global 200 chart. With a production team that includes legends like Teddy Park (BLACKPINK) and songwriters for BTS, “Golden” has the pedigree and popularity that Oscar voters love.
An Animated Showdown: K-Pop vs. Demon Slayers
Adding to the excitement is the film’s potential competition. Japan’s highly anticipated ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle’ is also a critical and commercial success. This sets the stage for a potential showdown between two titans of East Asian animation at the Oscars.
While Demon Slayer comes with a massive existing fanbase, the fresh, genre-blending appeal of K-pop Demon Hunters and its chart-topping music give it a unique edge.
Whether it wins or not, the Oscar buzz around K-pop Demon Hunters marks a huge moment for K-culture and global animation. It proves that a story rooted in K-pop can resonate with audiences everywhere.
Do you think ‘K-pop Demon Hunters’ will snag an Oscar nomination? Let us know your thoughts below!