The nominations for the 2026 Oscars have been announced, and one of the biggest stories of the day is the success of KPop Demon Hunters. Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the film has officially secured a spot in the Best Animated Feature category.
The Netflix production has also earned a nod for Best Original Song with the track “Golden.” Written by a team including EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, and Teddy Park, the song has already dominated global charts and is now a frontrunner for Hollywood’s top musical prize.
A major win for Maggie Kang
Maggie Kang has long been a vocal advocate for seeing more diverse stories on screen. In a recent speech at the Golden Globes, she spoke about the importance of representing female characters as bold and capable. “Through this film we really wanted to depict female characters the way that we know women, which is really strong,” she said.
Read more: ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Just Became the Most-Watched Title in Netflix’s History… By a Mile
The film follows a fictional girl group who balance their lives as pop stars with their secret duties as supernatural warriors. Critics have praised the film for its high-energy action and its focus on self-acceptance. Its inclusion in the Best Animated Feature category marks a significant moment for films rooted in K-pop culture.
Tough competition in the animation category
While KPop Demon Hunters has a strong following, it faces stiff competition. The Academy has also nominated Disney’s Zootopia 2 and Pixar’s Elio. Other contenders include the French-produced Arco and Little Amélie or the Character of Rain.
The nomination for Best Original Song also sees “Golden” up against veterans like Diane Warren and Nick Cave. However, the sheer popularity of the track gives it a unique edge going into the ceremony.
View this post on Instagram
Other major Oscar contenders
Beyond the animation categories, Ryan Coogler’s Sinners and Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another lead the overall nominations. Actors such as Michael B. Jordan, Timothée Chalamet, and Jessie Buckley are also among those recognised for their leading roles.
The 98th Academy Awards will take place in Los Angeles later this year. Fans of Maggie Kang’s work will be watching closely to see if HUNTR/X can take home the gold.
View this post on Instagram
