AMAs 2026: KPop Demon Hunters Golden emerges as surprise winner in Song of the Year race

KPop Demon Hunters at AMAs 2026 (Picture via X)

The soundtrack sensation Golden from Netflix's animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters pulled off one of the biggest surprises at the 2026 American Music Awards by winning Song of the Year. The track triumphed over major chart-toppers from global stars including Taylor Swift and Morgan Wallen during the star-studded ceremony held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

KPop Demon Hunters' song Golden wins big at AMAs

Performed by the fictional girl group HUNTR/X, the song features vocals by real-life artists EJAE, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami. The energetic anthem has become a global phenomenon since the release of KPop Demon Hunters, blending cinematic storytelling with K-pop influences that resonated strongly with fans worldwide.

Golden beat a competitive lineup that included Alex Warren's Ordinary, Morgan Wallen's I'm the Problem, Taylor Swift's The Fate of Ophelia, and Ella Langley's Choosin' Texas. The win marked a significant milestone not just for the film but also for K-pop's growing impact on mainstream global music culture.

At the ceremony, EJAE and Rei Ami accepted the award on behalf of the group, while Audrey Nuna was absent. During the acceptance speech, EJAE thanked fans and the creative team behind the project, crediting audiences for helping the song achieve worldwide success. She also referenced the fictional mythology of the film, delighting viewers familiar with the animated universe. Rei Ami followed with an emotional message thanking supporters, family and friends during what she described as an unforgettable year.

BTS makes a grand return

The success of Golden has added to the larger K-pop wave that dominated this year's AMAs. Earlier in the night, BTS won Artist of the Year and Song of the Summer for Swim, further cementing Korean music's influence on the international stage.

The track's AMA victory follows months of growing popularity online, with fans praising its addictive hook, emotional energy and polished production. Industry observers have noted how fictional K-pop acts are increasingly crossing into real-world success, especially through streaming platforms and social media fandoms.

The 2026 AMAs, hosted by Queen Latifah, featured performances and appearances from some of the biggest names in music, but Golden emerged as one of the night's most talked-about winners.