The Empire State Building’s "KPOP DEMON HUNTERS" Music-To-Light Spectacular
On August 22, 2025, the iconic Empire State Building (ESB) in New York City transformed into a vibrant canvas for the "KPOP DEMON HUNTERS" Music-To-Light Spectacular. This unique cultural celebration was made possible through a collaboration with Netflix, the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment (CAPE USA), and iHeartMedia. The event not only showcased the global phenomenon of K-pop but also highlighted the building’s role as a cultural beacon in the heart of Manhattan.
A Night to Remember
The evening kicked off with an electrifying lighting ceremony led by the stars of the Netflix animated original film "KPOP DEMON HUNTERS": Arden Cho, May Hong, and singer REI AMI. As they flipped the famous light switch, the ESB’s tower lights illuminated in a dazzling gold, symbolizing the hit song "Golden," which served as the soundtrack for the night. This moment marked the official launch of the "Golden Weekend" event, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Choreographed Brilliance
The music-to-light show was meticulously choreographed by renowned lighting designer Marc Brickman and his Tactical Manouevre team. Thousands of LED lights danced in sync with the rhythm of "Golden," creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle that captivated onlookers. The event was broadcast live on iHeartMedia New York’s Z100 station, allowing fans far and wide to partake in the celebration.
Celebrating Cultural Milestones
The significance of the event extended beyond entertainment; it represented a milestone for the Empire State Building, a venue known for hosting cultural celebrations and pop culture events. Dan Rogoski, the ESB’s senior vice president, expressed the building’s commitment to celebrating global culture and creativity, stating, "Our ‘KPOP DEMON HUNTERS’ Music-to-Light Spectacular is a celebration of global culture and creativity right in the heart of New York City."
A Record-Breaking Film and Song
"KPOP DEMON HUNTERS" has made waves as the most-watched Netflix animated original film of all time, securing its place as a cultural touchstone. The song "Golden," performed by the film’s fictional band Huntr/x, featuring vocalists EJAE, AUDREY NUNA, and REI AMI, has also made history. It became the first single by a female K-pop artist to reach the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100, further solidifying the genre’s impact on the global music scene.
Bridging Cultural Gaps
The event underscored the Empire State Building’s role in bridging cultural gaps and connecting fans with their favorite artists. Owned by Empire State Realty Trust, Inc. (ESRT: NYSE), the building has been fully powered by renewable wind electricity since 2011, showcasing its commitment to sustainability. Each year, millions of visitors flock to the ESB, drawn not only by its architectural beauty but also by its dedication to celebrating diverse cultures.
For those interested in experiencing the Empire State Building and its Observatory Experience, more information can be found at esbnyc.com.
