‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Ties The Song That Introduced K-Pop To Millions Of Americans
Forbes Business
by Hugh McIntyre, Senior ContributorFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The song "Golden" by KPop Demon Hunters has achieved a significant milestone in the music charts, spending 32 weeks on Billboard's Digital Song Sales chart. This places it alongside Psy’s iconic "Gangnam Style" and Minyoung Lim’s "Bella Ciao" as the third-longest-running hits in history. The longevity of "Golden" highlights the sustained popularity of K-pop in the U.S., a phenomenon that has grown significantly over the years.
The success of "Golden" is a testament to the global appeal of K-pop, which has evolved from individual artists like Psy to globally recognized groups such as BTS and Blackpink. This shift reflects how K-pop has become a cultural powerhouse, influencing not only music but also television, film, and fashion. The song’s chart performance underscores the genre's ability to resonate with diverse audiences, even during challenging times in the music industry.
From a business perspective, the rise of K-pop represents a lucrative market opportunity. The global reach of K-pop acts has created a demand for Korean entertainment content, leading to increased investments in music, television, and film projects. Companies involved in this sector are capitalizing on the genre's popularity, driving economic growth both in South Korea and internationally.
Moreover, "Golden" serves as a reminder of how cultural exports can shape global trends. Its success aligns with South Korea’s long-term strategy to promote its culture worldwide, which has been supported by government initiatives and corporate investments. This approach has not only elevated the country's international profile but also opened doors for collaboration between Korean entertainment companies and global partners.
In summary, "Golden"’s achievement is more than just a milestone in music chart history—it’s a reflection of K-pop’s enduring influence and its role as a key player in the global entertainment industry. For businesses, this underscores the importance of understanding and engaging with cultural trends that can drive economic growth and international collaboration.
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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/14/2026