SHAH ALAM – Netflix has officially selected the upbeat track 'Golden' from its animated film KPop Demon Hunters as its contender for the Best Original Song category at the upcoming Academy Awards.
The energetic pop tune was co-written by South Korean-born artist Kim Eun-jae, known as EJAE and lyricist Mark Sonnenblick.
If 'Golden' secures a nomination in January, EJAE would become one of the very few songwriters of Korean heritage to be recognised by the Oscars.
Currently, the exclusive list features just one: Karen O, who was nominated in 2013 for co-writing 'The Moon Song'.
In KPop Demon Hunters, EJAE lends her voice as part of the fictional girl group Huntr/x, portraying the character Rumi.
She is joined by Audrey Nuna (as Mira) and Rei Ami (as Zoey).
The film premiered globally on Netflix on June 20.
EJAE is an accomplished singer-songwriter and producer, with credits including songs for major K-pop acts such as Red Velvet, aespa, LE SSERAFIM, TWICE, NMIXX and Kard.
Her collaborator Sonnenblick previously contributed lyrics to the musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada.
The deadline for Oscar submissions in the Best Original Song category is October 15.
Shortlists will be revealed on December 16, followed by official nominations on January 22.
The 2026 Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 2.