The animated sensation K-Pop Demon Hunters, also known as Las Guerreras K-Pop, isn’t just a box office and streaming success; it’s a testament to the power of perseverance and a platform for a songwriter who spent years working behind the scenes. The film’s breakout hit, “Golden,” topped the Billboard Hot 100 and earned four Grammy Award nominations, including Song of the Year, ultimately winning both a Grammy Award and a Golden Globe Award for Best Song Written For Visual Media and Best Original Song, marking a historic first for a K-pop track. But the story behind the music is as compelling as the film itself, centering on the journey of Kim Eun-jae, known professionally as Ejae.
Ejae’s path to global recognition wasn’t the typical K-pop trajectory of debuting as an idol. Instead, her career unfolded as a songwriter and producer, crafting hits for some of the industry’s biggest names, including Red Velvet, Aespa, Twice, and Le Sserafim. She co-wrote the topline for Red Velvet’s “Psycho,” which achieved gold certification in the United States. However, it was her function on K-Pop Demon Hunters – providing the singing voice for the character Rumi and co-writing several songs on the soundtrack – that propelled her into the international spotlight.
The success of “Golden” and the film itself has resonated deeply with audiences, and those involved are reflecting on the cultural impact. Mark Sonnenblick, a co-author of “Golden,” expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I love being present in an experience that has been unique in life.” Yu Han Lee, also a co-author, noted the difficulty in quantifying the global influence of K-pop, saying, “Dimensioning the success of K-pop culture in the world would be very challenging, like wanting to take water between your hands. It is a fact that there is an impact of which we are sometimes not aware, and we are very proud to be bearers of a positive message.”
From Trainee to Trailblazer
Ejae’s journey began in 2003 when, at the age of eleven, she was accepted as a trainee at SM Entertainment, one of South Korea’s most influential entertainment agencies. The trainee system is notoriously rigorous, demanding long hours of training in singing, dancing, and physical control, coupled with monthly evaluations and intense competition. Despite spending over a decade within the system, Ejae never officially debuted as a member of a music group or as a soloist. She transitioned to songwriting and production, a path that ultimately led to her breakthrough.
According to reporting from Marie Claire Mexico, Ejae’s story is a departure from the typical K-pop narrative of instant success. She worked diligently in the background, honing her skills and waiting for the right opportunity. Her dedication paid off when she joined the K-Pop Demon Hunters project in 2020, initially tasked with building the musical DNA of the film. The project, initially modest with a limited budget, quickly grew, and Ejae’s contributions became increasingly vital.
The Making of a Hit
Ejae was instrumental in creating the soundscape for K-Pop Demon Hunters, reportedly producing as many as 60 demos for certain scenes, many of which were ultimately discarded or rewritten. One track, “How It’s Done,” inspired by the energy of BLACKPINK, survived the process and became a defining element of the film’s vibrant universe. She also recorded the majority of the demos herself, including harmonies, backing vocals, and even male vocal parts. As the project gained momentum, she collaborated with musical director Ian Eisendrath and producers from THEBLACKLABEL, known for their work with BLACKPINK and MEOVV.
Her debut solo single, “In Another World,” was released on October 24, 2025, followed by “Time After Time” on February 6, 2026, according to Wikipedia. These releases mark a latest chapter in Ejae’s career, allowing her to step into the spotlight as a performer in her own right.
Looking Ahead
Ejae’s story is a powerful example of how talent and dedication can overcome obstacles in the competitive world of K-pop. Her journey from trainee to award-winning songwriter and performer demonstrates the evolving landscape of the industry and the increasing recognition of those who work behind the scenes. With an Academy Award nomination still pending for “Golden,” and a growing solo career, Ejae’s influence on the global music scene is poised to expand even further. The success of K-Pop Demon Hunters and the impact of “Golden” have undoubtedly opened doors for other aspiring creators, proving that there are multiple paths to success in the ever-evolving world of K-pop.
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