K-pop has officially crossed another historic milestone at the 68th Grammy Awards.
The original soundtrack “Golden” from Netflix’s animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters won Best Song Written for Visual Media, marking the first Grammy win ever for K-pop composers and producers.
The song was co-created by EJAE, TEDDY, 24, and IDO (Lee Yuhan, Kwak Jung-kyu, Nam Hee-dong), making them the first Korean K-pop songwriters to receive a Grammy trophy—an unprecedented moment for the industry.
A Historic Win for K-Pop Songwriters
Unlike performance-based awards, Best Song Written for Visual Media honors songwriters themselves, making this win particularly meaningful for K-pop creators.
Producer 24 dedicated the award to TEDDY in his acceptance message:
“Although he couldn’t be here with us today, I dedicate this honor to my greatest mentor and closest friend—TEDDY, the pioneer of K-pop.”
While Korean engineers and Korean-American contributors have previously won Grammys, this is the first time K-pop composers or producers have claimed a Grammy under the K-pop banner.
“Golden” Dominates Global Charts
Thanks to the film’s worldwide success, “Golden” became the first K-pop song to:
- Hit No.1 on Billboard Hot 100
- Top the UK Official Singles Chart
The track was also nominated in five Grammy categories, including:
- Song of the Year
- Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
Though it only secured one win, its impact was undeniable.
Rosé’s Grammy First & APT.’s Big Night
BLACKPINK’s Rosé made history as the first K-pop solo artist nominated in three General Field categories:
- Song of the Year
- Record of the Year
- Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
Her hit collaboration with Bruno Mars, “APT.”, didn’t take home a trophy—but the two artists opened the Grammy ceremony together, delivering a show-stopping performance that became one of the night’s most talked-about moments.
KATSEYE on the Grammy Stage
HYBE’s U.S.–Korea joint girl group KATSEYE also drew attention:
- Performed “Gnarly” as Best New Artist nominees
- Nominated for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance with “Gabriela”
The Best New Artist award ultimately went to Olivia Dean, while the pop duo/group category was won by Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande for “Defying Gravity” from Wicked.
Other Major Winners
- Song of the Year: Billie Eilish – “Wild Flower”
- Record of the Year: Kendrick Lamar & SZA – “Luther”
Why This Moment Matters
This Grammy win signals a major shift:
K-pop is no longer just a performance-driven genre—it is now globally recognized for songwriting and production excellence.
With TEDDY and his collaborators leading the way, the doors are officially open for more Korean creators to stand at the very center of the global music industry.
KOREA FBI Editor’s Comment
This wasn’t just a Grammy win—it was validation.
For years, K-pop producers shaped global hits behind the scenes. Now, the Recording Academy has officially acknowledged their artistry. The era of “K-pop creators” has truly begun.
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