Once a voice struggling to be heard, EJAE has now risen to illuminate the global music scene. The K-pop star, who faced countless rejections in the early stages of his career, has seen his music transcend borders, resonating from Los Angeles to São Paulo and throughout South Asia. His relentless pursuit of his dream has now culminated in one of the highest honours in world music: a Grammy Awards nomination.
The title track, “Golden,” from Netflix’s animated feature K-pop Demon Hunters, released earlier this year, has captivated audiences worldwide. Produced by EJAE’s band, Hunter X, the song has secured nominations in four prestigious categories:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Song of the Year | Recognising outstanding songwriting and composition |
| Best Pop Duo/Group Performance | Celebrating collaborative excellence in pop music |
| Best Song Written for Visual Media | Honouring music created specifically for films or TV |
| Best Remixed Recording | Acknowledging inventive and compelling remixes |
Hunter X, a dynamic trio featuring EJAE, Rei Ami, and Adrie Nuna, has become a beacon of talent and representation for Korean artists on the international stage. The Grammy nomination not only highlights their musical prowess but also marks a historic moment for K-pop’s global recognition.
The announcement of the nominations evoked a wave of emotion among the group. EJAE, visibly moved, shared, “I can’t believe it yet. It feels like I’m in a trance.” Fellow band member Rei Ami added, “This feels like something beyond this world.” Adrie Nuna emphasised the significance of representation, stating, “It’s an honour to be nominated, but even bigger than that is the fact that we represent. Seeing three Korean faces on this stage is the real success.”
EJAE’s journey from repeated rejections to Grammy recognition underscores the power of perseverance and talent. From local stages in South Korea to international acclaim, his story reflects not only personal triumph but also a broader cultural milestone for K-pop on the world stage.
Fans around the globe have celebrated the announcement, praising the band for breaking barriers and bringing K-pop into the Grammy spotlight. As anticipation builds for the 2026 Grammy Awards, EJAE and Hunter X stand poised to make history, their music uniting audiences across continents and cultures.
This milestone marks not merely a personal achievement for EJAE but a testament to the global impact of K-pop, demonstrating that dedication and passion can truly transform dreams into reality.