Actor Ahn Hyo-seop continues to strengthen his global profile with back to back appearances on major U.S. television programs, following his recent guest spot on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ with an appearance on NBC’s long running morning show ‘Today.’
According to industry sources, Ahn Hyo-seop appeared on The Tonight Show on January 12 (local time), before heading to NBC’s Today Show the following morning on January 13. The consecutive appearances placed him in front of audiences across North America, marking a rare media run for a Korean actor on U.S. broadcast television.
A Milestone Moment Tied to Global Success
Ahn’s U.S. media appearances come amid the global success of Netflix’s animated film ‘K-pop Demon Hunters,’ in which he voices Jinu, a central character in the story. The film has drawn international attention for its blend of K-pop culture, animation, and music-driven storytelling.
The momentum intensified after ‘K-pop Demon Hunters’ earned major recognition at the 83rd Golden Globe Awards, winning Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song, further elevating the film’s profile during awards season.
Reaching a Broader American Audience
NBC’s Today Show, first broadcast in 1952, is one of the most influential morning programs in the United States, covering news, culture, entertainment, and lifestyle. Ahn’s appearance on the program represents a significant step in expanding his reach beyond genre audiences and into mainstream American households.
In the U.S., the film has grown into a cultural moment. Reports describe theaters filled with children dressed as characters from the movie, alongside nationwide sing along screenings. Celebrities and professional athletes have also joined viral dance and music challenges inspired by the film, contributing to its spread as a social phenomenon.
Ahn Hyo-seop’s First Major English Voice Role
K-pop Demon Hunters marks Ahn’s first English language dubbing performance and his first leading role in a Hollywood animated feature. By successfully portraying Jinu, he has demonstrated versatility beyond live-action drama, positioning himself as an actor capable of crossing language and market boundaries.
A Fast-Paced Global Start to 2026
Ahn’s recent schedule reflects an increasingly international trajectory. Since the start of the year, he has attended CES 2026 in Las Vegas, appeared at the Golden Disc Awards in Taipei, and completed promotional events in New York, underscoring his growing presence across global entertainment hubs.
Looking ahead, Ahn is set to return to Korean television with the upcoming SBS drama ‘Sold Out Again Today.’ As 2026 unfolds, his continued expansion into global platforms suggests a career entering a new, international phase.