While fictional characters rarely compete with real-life artists on music charts, the animated K-pop girl group HUNTR/X has defied expectations by claiming the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 with their debut single “Golden.” The three-member group, created for Netflix’s animated film “KPop Demon Hunters,” features the fictional personas of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, whose vocals are performed by real-life singers EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami respectively.
Since its release, “Golden” has outperformed tracks by established K-pop acts, creating a unique situation where a fictional narrative-driven group dominates commercial charts. The group’s mission to maintain the magical barrier known as the Honmoon against demon invasions adds depth to their fictional universe. The group, which officially debuted on June 20, 2025, blends traditional K-pop elements with fantasy storytelling, following the members as they balance idol life with supernatural demon-hunting activities.
The unprecedented success of “Golden” showcases how fictional K-pop can transcend traditional boundaries while captivating global audiences with its supernatural twist.
Behind the animated characters, the real vocalists have experienced newfound recognition through their contributions to the project. EJAE, a Korean-American vocal producer based in Brooklyn, provides the singing voice for group leader Rumi. Mira’s vocals come from Audrey Nuna (born Audrey Chu), an established R&B artist signed with Sony Music, while rapper-songwriter Rei Ami voices the group’s maknae, Zoey. Similar to traditional musicians, these vocalists likely earn revenue through diverse income streams including streaming royalties, digital sales, and merchandise.
The success of “Golden” highlights the powerful connection between storytelling and music, as fans have embraced not only the song but the entire fictional universe surrounding HUNTR/X. The group’s narrative, featuring Rumi’s half-demon heritage and the members’ emotional struggles, adds layers of depth that resonate with audiences beyond typical musical content. According to a recent poll, Zoey has emerged as the most popular member with 43% of votes, demonstrating the strong fan connection to individual characters despite their fictional nature.
Fan engagement mirrors that of real K-pop groups, complete with an unofficial fandom name “Purple” and dedicated lightstick colors of white and purple. Digital fan edits and community discussions have further extended the group’s cultural footprint, creating a phenomenon that bridges animation, K-drama, and K-pop sensibilities. The vocal performers for HUNTR/X will likely earn royalties through performance rights organizations that collect payments whenever the song is played publicly.
With its chart dominance, HUNTR/X has established a new precedent for how fictional musical projects can achieve mainstream success while introducing diverse audiences to Korean cultural elements through innovative multimedia storytelling.
