The Netflix animated film, KPop Demon Hunters, has officially been crowned Best Animated Feature at the 98th Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars 2026, which took place on Monday, March 16, Indonesia time. This momentous victory not only marks a new chapter in the global film industry but also celebrates the success of what has become the most-watched film in Netflix’s history. KPop Demon Hunters triumphantly surpassed a formidable lineup of competitors, including critically acclaimed films like Arco, Elio, Little Amélie or the Character of Rain, and the highly anticipated sequel, Zootopia 2.
The Oscar win represents the pinnacle of an incredible awards season for KPop Demon Hunters. Leading up to this historic night, the film had already swept numerous prestigious accolades. Its impressive collection of honors includes major wins at the Golden Globes, Critics’ Choice Awards, and PGA Awards, alongside a remarkable haul of 10 trophies from the Annie Awards, firmly establishing its dominance in the animation landscape.
The emotional moment saw directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, alongside producer Michelle L.M. Wong, ascend the stage to accept the industry’s highest honor. In a truly groundbreaking achievement, Maggie Kang and Michelle Wong etched their names into history as the first Asian women to win the Best Animated Feature category at the Oscars, a testament to their exceptional talent and vision.
Visibly moved and holding back tears, Maggie Kang extended heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported the film’s journey. During her powerful acceptance speech, she addressed the audience, saying, “Thank you to the Academy and to all the fans who have brought us to this point, and especially to those of you who have faces similar to mine.”
Kang further articulated a profound mix of regret and immense hope regarding Asian representation, particularly for the Korean community, within the global film industry. She passionately shared her feelings, stating, “I am so sorry that it took us so long to finally be able to see ourselves in a film like this. But, the film is now here.” This sentiment underscored the long-awaited arrival of diverse storytelling on such a prominent platform.
She emphasized that this victory transcended the mere acquisition of a trophy; it represents a profound legacy for the future. “This means the next generation will no longer need to feel longing [for representation]. This is for Korea and for Koreans wherever you are,” Kang declared, highlighting the lasting impact of their achievement on identity and belonging for future generations.
Awaiting Victory in the Music Category
Beyond its triumph in the animated film category, KPop Demon Hunters also holds a strong chance of taking home another coveted award. Its smash hit song, “Golden,” is a powerful contender for the Best Original Song Oscar. “Golden” faces stiff competition from other outstanding nominations, including “I Lied to You” (from Sinners), “Dear Me” by Diane Warren (from Diane Warren: Relentless), the theme song from Train Dreams by Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner, and “Sweet Dreams of Joy” by Nicholas Pike (from Viva Verdi!).
Sequel and Exclusive Contract
The good news for fans and the industry doesn’t end there. Just last week, a highly anticipated sequel to the film was officially announced. Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans are confirmed to return to helm the project, reprising their roles as both directors and screenwriters for the sequel, which is slated for a 2029 release. This exciting follow-up project marks the beginning of an exclusive contract between Appelhans and Kang with Netflix, paving the way for them to develop a diverse range of new animation projects in the future.
Summary
The Netflix animated film, KPop Demon Hunters, secured the Best Animated Feature award at the 98th Academy Awards, marking a significant milestone as Netflix’s most-watched film. This victory followed a triumphant awards season that included major wins at the Golden Globes and Annie Awards. Directors Maggie Kang and Michelle Wong made history as the first Asian women to win in this category, with Kang highlighting the film’s crucial role in Asian representation for future generations.
Beyond its main triumph, KPop Demon Hunters also has its song “Golden” nominated for Best Original Song. Furthermore, a highly anticipated sequel is announced for a 2029 release, with original directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans confirmed to return. This project initiates an exclusive contract between the directors and Netflix for developing new animation projects.