Producer EJAE Reflects on 12-Year Trainee Journey and Success Behind Netflix's 'K-Pop Demon Hunters'

From Failed Idol Dreams to Chart-Topping Producer

Music producer Lee Jae (EJAE) recently appeared on tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block' to share his remarkable journey from a trainee who never debuted to the mastermind behind one of 2025's biggest global hits.

The Global Success of 'Golden'

Lee Jae composed and performed 'Golden,' the main OST for Netflix's hit animated series 'K-Pop Demon Hunters.' The track has dominated Billboard's Hot 100 chart for eight consecutive weeks, cementing its status as a worldwide phenomenon. Beyond 'Golden,' Lee Jae contributed to multiple tracks on the series' soundtrack, including composing 'How It's Dawn' and arranging both 'Takedown' and 'Your Idol.'

Copyright Earnings and Industry Realities

During the show, host Cho Se-ho mentioned rumors that Lee Jae's accumulated copyright fees could reach approximately 45.6 billion KRW, comparable to the prize money from 'Squid Game.' However, Lee Jae revealed he hasn't yet received the full amount, explaining that copyright payments in the United States can take up to a year to process.

12 Years as an SM Entertainment Trainee

Lee Jae opened up about his extensive 12-year trainee period at SM Entertainment, which began when he was just 11 years old. He trained alongside artists who would later become members of legendary groups including Super Junior, Girls' Generation, SHINee, and f(x).

His daily routine was grueling, arriving at the practice room at 7 AM and leaving at 11 PM. The physical toll was severe—at age 13, he even fainted during practice. Despite his dedication and years of training, Lee Jae never debuted as an idol. He explained that his vocal style didn't align with SM's preference for cleaner voices, and he had aged beyond the typical debut window.

Turning Pain Into Purpose

After his trainee contract ended, Lee Jae spent a month processing the disappointment. He admitted learning an important lesson: that hard work alone doesn't guarantee success. Initially harboring resentment toward the idol industry, he ultimately found solace in music itself, exploring genres beyond K-pop.

Rise as a Sought-After Composer

Lee Jae taught himself production through YouTube, creating beats and working on various OSTs. His breakthrough came when producer Sinsa-dong Tiger approved one of his beats, which EXID's Hani eventually recorded. This success opened doors, leading to invitations to SM's song camps—the same company where he once trained.

His composer credentials now include major K-pop hits such as Red Velvet's 'Psycho' (his first song camp creation) and aespa's 'Drama' and 'Armageddon,' proving that his path, though unconventional, led to remarkable success.