Her voice now resonates across continents — from car speakers in Los Angeles to TikTok dance videos in São Paulo. Though millions know her songs, few may recognise her name. She is Izeii, the K-Pop sensation whose journey from rejection to global fame has become an inspiring story of perseverance.
Recently, Izeii performed the title track “Golden” for the American animated musical K-Pop Demon Hunters, an urban-fantasy film that has taken the internet by storm. The song has soared to the top of YouTube’s global music charts, turning the South Korean singer-songwriter into an overnight star.
Today, Izeii is one of the most talked-about names in the K-Pop world. But behind the glamour lies the remarkable story of Lee Yoon-Jae, the real woman behind the stage name. Her dream of becoming a star began years ago within the demanding training rooms of SM Entertainment, one of South Korea’s most prestigious music companies — the same powerhouse that produced global icons like BTS and BLACKPINK. Yet, her experience there was far from glittering.
In a recent interview, Izeii described that seven-year period as “the toughest lesson” of her life, marked by relentless discipline and deep loneliness. Despite her tireless dedication to vocal and dance training, her debut was repeatedly delayed. Song after song remained unreleased, and frustration mounted. Disheartened, she made the painful decision to leave the industry altogether.
But destiny had other plans. Not long after, the producers of K-Pop Demon Hunters discovered her unique voice and offered her the chance to perform for their upcoming project. This opportunity came with something rare in the K-Pop scene — complete creative freedom. Izeii seized it, collaborating with two other singers to craft the anthemic track “Golden”, which would soon change her life.
Released under the K-Pop Demons label by Sony Pictures Animation, Golden quickly went viral, amassing over 652 million views within four months of release. It continues to dominate YouTube’s top charts, praised for its addictive rhythm, powerful vocals and emotional depth.
Through this global hit, Izeii has proved that genuine talent can shine beyond the boundaries of major entertainment labels. Her success stands as a story of resilience and rebirth — a powerful reminder that what began as a tale of rejection has become something far greater than revenge. It is, as fans put it, “a golden victory for the voice that refused to fade.”