Singer-songwriter EJAE is fueling curiosity — and a bit of disbelief — over how much money could be coming from the global hit “KPop Demon Hunters,” as talk of 45.6 billion won in royalties continues to circulate online.

EJAE (Xportsnews/The Korea Times)

At a press conference on Wednesday at Yongsan I’Park Mall in Seoul, celebrating the film’s recent awards success, EJAE addressed the speculation with a cautious but optimistic tone.

“I don’t really know yet. It takes time,” she said when asked about royalty settlements.

From viral hit to awards sweep

“KPop Demon Hunters” — an action-fantasy animation about K-pop superstars who secretly protect the world — has become a rare crossover success, winning major honors at global awards including the Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globes and the Grammys.

The film reached a new peak on March 15, when it won both Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song at the 98th Academy Awards.

Alongside the soundtrack's breakout hit "Golden," other tracks have also gained traction internationally, with songs like “Soda Pop” and “Your Idol” charting and contributing to the growing global reach of the album.

‘It’s exciting … I want to buy my mom a gift’

When asked if she was looking forward to the eventual payout, EJAE smiled and said yes.

“I want to buy my mother a gift, and I’m also getting married now,” she said, referencing her wedding scheduled for November.

Her comments quickly drew attention online, as fans linked them to earlier remarks suggesting the royalties could be massive.

The '$34 million won' rumor explained

The number comes from a comparison made during EJAE’s appearance on tvN’s “You Quiz on the Block,” where she was asked whether the royalties might rival the 45.6 billion won ($34 million) prize from the hit series “Squid Game.”

EJAE did not confirm the figure, instead explaining that payments in the United States typically take longer to process.

“In the U.S., it takes about a year,” she said.

Industry insiders hint at big earnings

Producer Vince, who worked on “Soda Pop” and “Your Idol,” also hinted at the scale of potential earnings.

“As a K-pop composer, entering the Billboard Top 5 is something you rarely experience, so it’s hard to even estimate,” he said. “When overseas royalties start coming in next year, I might faint.”

Still unknown, but expectations rising

Despite the viral headlines, the exact amount remains unclear, as international royalty distribution often takes months or longer to finalize.

Still, with the film’s global success and chart performance, anticipation is growing over just how large the final payout could be.

For now, EJAE’s lighthearted comments — balancing family, marriage and newfound success — are adding a human touch to what could become one of K-pop’s most talked-about royalty stories.