K-pop Demon Hunters wins Oscars, sparks controversy

Mar 17, 2026, 10:23 am

		0
The team behind the animated film K-pop Demon Hunters celebrates after winning at the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles. / Reuters, Netflix

The animated film K-pop Demon Hunters won two awards at the Academy Awards, including Best Original Song—marking a first for K-pop—but the moment was overshadowed by controversy after the winners’ acceptance speech was abruptly cut off.

At the 98th Academy Awards held on March 15 in Los Angeles, the film’s original soundtrack track “Golden” took home the Best Original Song award.

Singer and co-writer Lee Jae began delivering an emotional acceptance speech, appearing tearful as he addressed the audience. However, as co-composer Lee Yoo-han attempted to continue the remarks, loud music played over the stage, cutting the speech short before the broadcast quickly moved to a commercial break.

The incident sparked widespread criticism online, with many viewers calling the interruption disrespectful.

One user wrote, “They should have let the winners finish their speech. Why cut them off at such an important moment?” Another commented, “The Oscars are about honoring winners and their speeches. This was very rude.”

Some viewers pointed out that winners in other categories were given significantly more time to speak, questioning why the “Golden” team’s remarks were cut short. “Others spoke for nearly four minutes—why was this team stopped so quickly?” one comment read.

Others emphasized the symbolic importance of the moment, noting that it marked K-pop’s first Oscar win. “Covering their speech with music at such a historic moment was disrespectful,” a viewer said.

A few commenters also raised the possibility of bias, arguing that the abrupt interruption could become controversial.

Meanwhile, some viewers criticized the overall broadcast structure, saying, “They spend a long time on comedy segments but cut the winners’ speeches. The point of the ceremony is to celebrate them.”

K-pop Demon Hunters also won Best Animated Feature, securing two awards at this year’s ceremony.

#K-pop Demon Hunters #Oscars #Academy Awards #Best Original Song #Golden