'KPop Demon Hunters' creator Maggie Kang, singer Ejae invited to join Academy
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), the organization behind the Oscars, has invited 529 artists and executives to become members in 2026.
Among those invited are Maggie Kang, creator and co-director of the hit animated film “KPop Demon Hunters,” and Ejae, who provided the singing voice for the film’s lead character, Rumi.
Academy members are responsible for voting in the annual Academy Awards, widely known as the Oscars.
“We are delighted to invite this remarkable group of film artists and professionals from around the world to join the Academy,” Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor said in a statement.
“Through their commitment to filmmaking, this year’s exceptionally talented class has made significant contributions to our global movie industry,” they added.
The Academy said membership is granted through sponsorship rather than application. Oscar nominees are automatically considered for membership in the year they receive their nomination and do not require sponsors.
According to AMPAS, women make up 42 percent of this year’s invitees, while 56 percent belong to underrepresented communities. In addition, 53 percent come from 60 countries and territories outside the United States.
Other notable invitees include actors Jon Bernthal, Jacob Elordi, Simu Liu, Jenna Ortega and Josh O’Connor, as well as filmmakers Kim Jee-woon and Zach Cregger.