The world is officially protected by a “Honmoon,” a term from the hit Netflix animated series K-Pop Demon Hunters. In the show, a Honmoon is a protective barrier that shields the world from evil, powered by the collective bonds of unity and love that radiate from people’s hearts through the music of the girl group HUNTR/X. Today, it seems a real-life “GOLDEN” Honmoon has been formed.
The theme song from the show, “GOLDEN,” has climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 main singles chart, making it the number one song in the country. Billboard confirmed the news on the 11th, local time, reporting that the track rose a spot to claim the chart’s highest position. The song’s immense popularity means countless people are listening to it, a phenomenon that perfectly mirrors the show’s concept of a unifying, protective shield.
“GOLDEN” is a powerful anthem performed by the virtual K-Pop group HUNTR/X. The track, composed by The Black Label producers Teddy and 24, features vocals from former SM Entertainment trainee EJAE, American-Korean singer Audrey Nuna, and Seoul-based rapper and singer-songwriter Rei Ami. With its soaring high notes, infectious melody, and emotionally charged progression, the song embodies the very essence of K-Pop. It even includes Korean lyrics like ‘어두워진 앞길 속에’ (in a darkened path ahead) and ‘밝게 빛나는 우린’ (we who shine brightly), adding to its authentic feel.
The song’s achievement is a significant milestone for K-Pop. Previously, only BTS and its members Jimin and Jung Kook had reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. “GOLDEN” is the first time a K-Pop song performed by female vocalists has ever topped the chart.
Though HUNTR/X is a fictional group, their success is very real. This number one hit makes them the first girl group with more than three members to top the Hot 100 since Destiny’s Child in 2001, a remarkable 24-year gap.
With its catchy melody and inspiring message, it’s no wonder “GOLDEN” is stuck in everyone’s head. It’s the perfect time to give it another listen.