From Original to Arrangement: HUNTR/X's 'Golden' (KPop Demon Hunters OST) and PIANELLA PIANO's Piano Interpretation
- Yeoul Choi
- Aug 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 22
The animated musical-fantasy film "K-pop Demon Hunters," released on Netflix by Sony Pictures in June 2025, quickly gained significant global traction. As the first animation centered around K-POP Idol characters, it became a viral sensation, captivating audiences not only with its distinctive storyline but also with its powerful K-Pop-rooted soundtracks. Several original songs from the film: How It’s Done, Soda Pop, Takedown recently topped the Billboard Global 200 chart. Among these charting successes, the song "Golden" by HUNTR/X achieved recognition, tying for the highest-charting song by a female K-pop group on Spotify U.S.
The original soundtrack “Golden” features an empowering electropop and soaring melodies with dramatic high notes, and emotionally resonant lyrics. This song is produced by IDO, 23, and Teddy who are established music producers known for their work in the K-pop industry. The soundtrack has also garnered significant attention in the Korean music industry, as it was produced by a team of highly skilled K-pop producers. Golden captures HUNTR/X’s mission to protect humanity and reflects Rumi’s internal struggle with her half-demon identity.
Today, I want to give you a guide how you can approach the piano version of “Golden” before you buy the piano sheet music arranged by Pianella Piano.
Overall Structure of the Original Version of Golden
Golden” follows the typical structure of a K-pop song, gradually building emotional intensity through the sequence of intro–verse–pre-chorus–chorus–post-chorus–second verse–bridge–final chorus–outro. This structure effectively embodies the common K-pop pattern of “build-up–climax–emotional release,” supporting the song’s dramatic narrative arc.
You can see the structure table of Golden below.
Section | Prominent Instruments / Sounds |
Intro | Ambient synth pads + soft electronics |
Verses | Synth bass + mid-range pads |
Pre-Chorus | Subtle build with synth arpeggios |
Chorus | Full electronic layering + harmonies |
Bridge / Climax | Strings blend with electronics |
Outro | Combined synth + orchestral echoes |
In the intro, by opening with atmospheric synth pads, it creates a cinematic and mystical tone. Throughout Golden, one can recognize a bold electropop foundation featuring synthesized bass, arpeggiated lines, and lush electronic textures.
Piano Arrangement of Golden by Pianella Piano
Let's take a look at Pianella Piano's piano arrangement. This sheet music closely follows the structure of the original song and shows an effort not only to express it pianistically and brilliantly, but also to depict the original rhythms and instruments. While Mel’s Music Corner’s arrangement can be considered a relatively easier version, Pianella Piano’s arrangement can be classified as slightly more challenging.
From Intro to Verse
In the intro part of the piano version, the left hand closely mimics the ambient synth pad sound from the original one. Instead of using broken chords, it uses chord blocks, incorporating only some of the chord tones, which creates a broader acoustic effect. Also, the right hand directly adopts the guitar's melody and texture which forms the arch-like melodic figure.
The Verse part starts at measure 9. In this part, the left hand mimics the rhythm of the synth bass by using triplet figures in the form of arpeggios. This technique not only replicates the driving pulse characteristic of electronic pop production but also adds a dynamic sense of movement to the accompaniment. The triplet figures create a rolling, wave-like momentum that fills the harmonic space without overwhelming the right-hand melody.
Expression of the Pre-Chorus and Development Toward the Climax
The left-hand triplet arpeggio pattern is momentarily suspended in the pre-chorus, allowing the leaping, expansive melody to shine more vividly. This brief pause creates a sense of the music “catching its breath,” enhancing tension and anticipation in the overall progression.
In measure 29, the deep, rumbling bass and triplet rhythm effectively depict the impactful drum sound, adding dramatic tension. This clever use of rhythm and register intensifies the build-up toward the climax.
Measure 32 marks a peak in the piece: the right and left hands stretch apart into wider registers, creating a sense of space and energy. Yet, just before transitioning into the chorus, the left-hand accompaniment suddenly drops out, leaving the right hand to begin the chorus solo. This contrast draws the listener’s attention and amplifies the emotional impact of the transition.
Changes in Playing Style in the Chorus and Post-Chorus
In the chorus and post-chorus, the left-hand accompaniment technique shifts. Whereas it previously played arpeggios within a single octave, it now spans across two octaves or more. This change results in a richer, more dimensional sound and requires more advanced technique from the performer.
Second Verse and Outro
Beginning in measure 49, the second verse returns to a quieter dynamic (mp), evoking the calm texture of the synth pad once more. In measure 54, the reappearance of the arpeggiated accompaniment suggests the approach of the second chorus and climax, maintaining structural and emotional continuity. The outro again highlights the triplet rhythm in the left hand, mimicking the synth bass. Meanwhile, the melody in the right hand continues to build with layered chords, sustaining tension to the very end.
Practice Guide
While the melody may be familiar and easy to recognize, the left-hand triplet rhythm can be quite challenging to master. It’s essential to begin by practicing the left hand alone, focusing on maintaining a steady triplet feel. Only after building rhythmic stability should the right-hand melody be added, aiming for a cohesive and expressive performance.
If you'd like to try playing Pianella Piano’s version of 'Golden', here is the link to purchase the sheet music.
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