Netflix KPop Demon Hunters Oscar nominations 2026: Animated hit eyes Academy glory

K-pop warriors are officially taking over Hollywood. According to Yonhap News, Netflix's animated sensation KPop Demon Hunters has secured two Oscar nominations for the 98th Academy Awards. Co-directed by Korean Canadian filmmaker Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the film earned nods for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for its standout track, "Golden."

Netflix KPop Demon Hunters Oscar nominations and Global Impact

Since its release on June 20 last year, the movie hasn't just been a hit—it's become Netflix's most-watched film of all time. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, it follows a group of idols who balance chart-topping careers with a secret life as demon hunters. The film's immense popularity led to limited theatrical singalong releases in the US, Australia, and Britain, proving that the K-pop aesthetic resonates far beyond the music industry.

Continuing the Award Season Sweep

The Academy's recognition comes on the heels of major victories at the Golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards earlier this month. Industry experts see the film as a frontrunner for the ceremony on March 15, where it will compete against global animation heavyweights.