Oscars accused of “disrespectful” cutoff in KPop Demon Hunters speech

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The 2026 Oscars have begun, and although KPop Demon Hunters won Best Animated Feature, many viewers felt uncomfortable with a moment that happened during the acceptance speech.

The nominees for this category faced strong competition, including films like Arco, Elio, Little Amélie or the Character of Rain, and Zootopia 2.

KPop Demon Hunters became a worldwide hit, setting numerous records for Netflix, earning significant money in theaters, and even causing costumes to sell out.

It wasn’t a shock when the film won at the 98th Academy Awards on Sunday, March 15th. However, the acceptance speech wasn’t quite what fans were expecting.

KPop Demon Hunters fans clap back at awkward Oscars 2026 moment

Maggie Kang, Chris Appelhans, and Michelle L.M. Wong, the director and producer of the show, were speaking to the audience when the music meant to signal the end of their time started playing unexpectedly during Kang’s remarks.

Maggie Kang, accepting her Oscar, sent a heartfelt message to people of Korean heritage. She apologized for the lack of representation in film for so long, but expressed hope that this film will pave the way for future generations, so they won’t have to wait to see themselves reflected on screen. Her speech was incredibly moving.

— ZEEZ 🌚 (@Swaggzeez1) March 15, 2026

The Oscars broadcast live, and it’s not known if a recent incident was done on purpose. Regardless, many viewers watching at home felt it was disrespectful.

Someone on X expressed disappointment with how the producers of ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ were treated at the Oscars, saying they should have been allowed to finish their acceptance speech. However, they were also happy the film won an award.

Someone commented that the music cutting off the KPop Demon Hunters’ speech was a bit abrupt. Another viewer pointed out that they seemed to try and rush the speech while Amy Madigan was still speaking for a long time at the Oscars. #Oscars

Someone else pointed out that there’s time for bad jokes, but not for the characters in KPop Demon Hunters to have dialogue.

Thankfully the music was swiftly stopped, allowing Kang to finish her speech. 

She acknowledged that it took a long time for people who share her background to be represented in a film like this, and expressed her hope that future generations won’t have to wait so long for similar representation.

Appelhans pointed out that films can bring people together, bridging cultural and national divides.

He encouraged young filmmakers, artists, and musicians everywhere to share their unique perspectives. “The world is eager to hear what you have to say,” he said.

Fans are thrilled with the victory, sharing their congratulations online. One fan wrote, “Well deserved, KPop Demon Hunters!” Another commented that the award shows how impactful creative and original stories can be, even on a global scale.

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2026-03-16 03:49