[OSENWORLD] EJAE—the Korean American singer-songwriter who voices Rumi in Netflix’s animated hit K-Pop Demon Hunters and co-wrote its breakout track “Golden”—has shared an emotional and heartfelt response to the song’s unprecedented success.
“It’s just… unreal to see ‘Golden’ at No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200 and climbing into the Top 10 of the Hot 100,” she said, thanking fans around the world for their overwhelming support.
“Golden” made history on August 11 (U.S. time), when Billboard announced it had dethroned Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” to take the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. It is the ninth K-Pop song ever to top the chart, and the first performed entirely by female vocalists. For girl groups, it’s the first Hot 100 No. 1 in 24 years—since Destiny’s Child’s 2001 hit “Bootylicious.” It also breaks a years-long streak in which every K-Pop No. 1 was tied to BTS, whether as a group or through members’ solo releases.
The dance-pop anthem, marked by soaring high notes, an addictive hook, and an uplifting message, is performed by EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami—all Korean American artists. Production credits include Teddy and 24 of The Black Label, known for crafting hits for BLACKPINK and BIGBANG.
Released globally on June 20, 2025, K-Pop Demon Hunters follows K-Pop superstars Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, who dazzle on stage—while secretly protecting the world from demons as “Hunters.” Within weeks, “Golden” entered the Hot 100 at No. 81, then climbed steadily—23 → 6 → 4 → 2—before reaching No. 1 in its seventh week. On August 1, it also topped the UK Official Singles Chart, sweeping both of the world’s most influential music markets.
Alongside her brief statement of gratitude, EJAE also posted a longer message celebrating a milestone month for her career:
“What a golden month it’s been! Three songs I co-wrote for the soundtrack are now charting on both the Billboard Global 200 and the Billboard Hot 100—and all three are in the Top 40 of the Hot 100! And they’re still climbing. ‘Golden’ hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200 and No. 6 on the Hot 100 is just… unreal. I feel so honored that people are loving these songs, and I’m beyond grateful. No words can truly describe what we’re all feeling right now. We gave our best, and it’s amazing to see our hard work come to fruition. Thank you so, so much to all the beautiful people showing so much love to both the music and the film. 여러분, 이렇게 영화와 음악을 사랑해 주셔서 정말 감사합니다. 더 열심히 하겠습니다! And thank you @wackycashew for always sending updates—credit to you for much of the chart info!”
Fueled by the film’s global popularity and the viral “Golden Challenge” on social media, the song has become a symbol of K-Pop’s expanding influence—and for EJAE, a career-defining milestone worth every tear.
/k_inside@osen.co.kr
