The global sensation that is “KPop Demon Hunters” continues to make waves, and for EJAE, the singer-songwriter behind the film’s breakout hit “Golden,” the journey has been particularly poignant. Whereas celebrating the song’s historic wins – a Golden Globe in January and a Grammy in February – EJAE recently revealed a surprisingly vulnerable moment: a bout of stage fright triggered by locking eyes with none other than Leonardo DiCaprio during a performance at the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs). This unexpected confession, shared during an appearance on the 3rd Hour of TODAY, highlights the human side of a rising star navigating newfound fame and the pressures of performing on a global stage.
“Golden,” co-written by EJAE alongside Yu Han Lee, Joong Gyu Kwak, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo, Park Hong Jun, Kim Eun-Jae, and Mark Sonnenblick, marked a monumental achievement as the first K-Pop song to receive a Golden Globe award for best original song – motion picture, as reported by Billboard on January 11, 2026. The song is performed by HUNTR/X, the fictional K-Pop group within the film, comprised of EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami. The success of “Golden” and “KPop Demon Hunters” extends beyond critical acclaim; the film itself became Netflix’s most popular film to date in August, with a confirmed sequel slated for release in 2029, according to Netflix’s Tudum website.
A Moment of Stage Fright and a Hollywood Icon
Despite her remarkable success, EJAE admits to battling significant stage fright. She recounted a recent performance where, despite feeling confident after a strong rehearsal, her voice cracked during the highest note of “Golden” – the iconic “born to be.” The culprit? A fleeting but impactful moment of eye contact with Leonardo DiCaprio. “I unfortunately open my eyes and lock eyes with Leonardo DiCaprio,” she explained, “And I was like, ‘No!’” The incident, while momentarily unsettling, didn’t derail her performance. EJAE persevered, focusing on the lyrics and delivering a performance she could be proud of. The performance took place at the BAFTAs, as confirmed by a YouTube video showing her performance.
From Rejection to Redirection: EJAE’s Inspiring Journey
EJAE’s story is one of resilience and finding purpose after facing early setbacks. During her acceptance speech for the Golden Globe, she openly discussed being told her voice wasn’t “good enough” during her decade-long pursuit of becoming a K-Pop idol. This rejection, rather than extinguishing her passion, led her down a different path – songwriting. “So I leaned on song and music to receive through it and now I’m here as a singer-songwriter,” she shared, as reported by Billboard. Her message resonated deeply, particularly with those who have faced their own obstacles, and she dedicated the award to “people who had doors closed on them,” proclaiming that “rejection is redirection.”
The Global Impact of “Golden” and “KPop Demon Hunters”
The success of “Golden” extends beyond awards and accolades. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks in 2025, demonstrating its widespread appeal. The song’s lyrics, a blend of Korean and English, have resonated with audiences from diverse backgrounds. EJAE noted the significance of this inclusivity, reflecting on a time when Korea wasn’t widely known and expressing her joy at seeing her culture celebrated through “KPop Demon Hunters.” The film’s popularity culminated in becoming Netflix’s most popular film to date in August, further solidifying its cultural impact.
HUNTR/X: A New Force in Music
EJAE, alongside Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami, forms HUNTR/X, the dynamic group that brings the music of “KPop Demon Hunters” to life. The trio’s breakout year in 2025 was filled with “pinch-me moments,” as they described to Billboard. Their collaborative spirit and unique sound have captivated audiences worldwide, paving the way for a bright future in the music industry. The group’s success highlights the growing global influence of K-Pop and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
What’s Next for EJAE and “KPop Demon Hunters”?
With a Golden Globe, a Grammy, and a record-breaking film under her belt, EJAE’s career is undoubtedly on an upward trajectory. The confirmed sequel to “KPop Demon Hunters,” slated for a 2029 release, promises to further expand the universe and introduce new music to fans. The success of the film and its soundtrack has opened doors for greater representation of Korean culture in mainstream media and has inspired a new generation of artists. The future looks bright for EJAE and the world of “KPop Demon Hunters.”
Fans eagerly await further updates on the sequel and any potential solo projects from EJAE. The artist’s willingness to share her personal struggles and triumphs has made her a relatable and inspiring figure for many. As she continues to navigate the complexities of fame and artistry, EJAE’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of rejection, it’s always possible to uncover your voice and shine.
The highly anticipated sequel to “KPop Demon Hunters” is currently in development, with a planned release in 2029. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for further updates on this exciting project and the continuing career of EJAE. What are your thoughts on EJAE’s story and the impact of “Golden”? Share your comments below and join the conversation!