The Korean animated film 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' achieved significant recognition at the 98th Academy Awards held on March 16, 2023, in Los Angeles, winning the Oscar for Best Original Song with its track 'Golden'. This movie has now secured two Oscars, following its win for Best Animated Feature. The song triumphed over other notable nominees, including 'Cinemas: The Sinners' and 'Dream Train', highlighting the growing influence and artistry of K-Pop on a global stage.

During the acceptance speech, composer and singer Lee Jae expressed deep emotion, noting their journey with K-Pop and how perceptions of the genre have evolved. He shared that the song is not merely about success but embodies the themes of resilience and recovery. The award ceremony featured a remarkable live performance where members of the girl group HuntRix, along with Lee Jae and other artists, performed 'Golden', captivating the audience with a representation of K-Pop culture, including traditional Korean elements. This performance was met with enthusiastic reactions from notable attendees including Hollywood stars, reflecting the cross-cultural impact of K-Pop.

The ceremony also showcased elements of Korean traditional culture, starting with a folk singer dressed in traditional Hanbok, who introduced a piece of traditional music. This was followed by a dance performance by a group dressed in traditional costumes. The atmosphere was electrified as the audience, including award nominees, waved their cheering sticks in sync with the performance. Last year’s national turbulence in South Korea has positioned such cultural displays as symbols of resilience in its democratic history, making this award and performance at the Oscars particularly meaningful for K-Pop and Korean representation on the world stage.