The breakout hit Golden from the animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters has soared to the top of the UK Singles Chart, marking a major milestone for K-pop in the region. The track, performed and co-written by rising artist Ejae, dethroned Justin Bieber to claim the number one spot—an achievement not seen in the genre since Gangnam Style dominated over a decade ago.
The Netflix film, which follows a fictional girl group battling supernatural forces while balancing their pop careers, has shattered records as the platform’s most-watched animated feature since its June debut. Its soundtrack, featuring Golden and other tracks like Your Idol, has captivated audiences, with both songs securing spots in this week’s top 10.
Ejae, who voices one of the film’s lead characters, described the whirlwind success as surreal. “It’s like catching a wave you never expected,” she shared. “The response has been overwhelming—I’m still processing it.”
Industry experts suggest the song’s uplifting energy resonates with listeners seeking optimism. “It’s a powerful anthem that transcends generations,” noted a chart analyst, predicting Golden could dominate summer playlists.
Meanwhile, the film’s popularity has sparked renewed interest in K-pop, drawing in audiences unfamiliar with the genre. “People who loved the movie are now exploring real-life artists,” said a fan site operator.
Beyond K-pop, the charts saw strong debuts from Drake and Central Cee, while Ozzy Osbourne’s classics surged following his recent passing.
As K-Pop Demon Hunters continues its global reign, Golden stands as a testament to the genre’s expanding influence—and a potential anthem for the season.
