Today, Mayor Olivia Chow presented the Key to the City of Toronto to acclaimed animator, writer and director Maggie Kang at Departure Festival and Conference 2026. Kang is celebrated and best known for creating the story for the international sensation KPop Demon Hunters, which she co-wrote and directed. Her career reflects the enduring strength of Toronto’s animation sector and the creative excellence that continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
Born in Seoul, Korea, Kang grew up in Toronto and attended Sheridan College where she studied classical animation. Before completing KPop Demon Hunters, Kang began her career at DreamWorks Animation as a story artist, contributing to projects such as the Puss in Boots franchise, The Croods: A New Age, Rise of the Guardians, Kung-Fu Panda 3, Trolls, Shrek Forever After, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa, and Over the Hedge. As her career progressed, she contributed her talents as a story artist at Illumination Entertainment, working on projects including Minions: The Rise of Gru, and Warner Animation Group, where she was the head of story on the Lego Ninjago Movie.
In addition to its strong messages for viewers around friendship, belonging and self-acceptance, KPop Demon Hunters is applauded for its exploration of Korean culture. This was an intentional and deeply personal choice for Kang, who has shared her pride in watching Korean pop culture gain global popularity. In 2026, KPop Demon Hunters won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, among other accolades.
Kang’s work reflects authenticity in theme, visual style, and spirit, demonstrating how Toronto’s animation community continues to shape storytelling on a global stage.
About the Key to the City
The Mayor awards the Key to the City to inspiring individuals from diverse backgrounds who embody the spirit and potential of Toronto, and who have contributed significantly to civic life. The Key to the City is Toronto’s highest honour granted by the Mayor to an individual or a group.
More information, including a list of past recipients, is available on the City’s Key to the City web pages.
Mayor Chow invites residents to share their suggestions for individuals they believe should receive the Key to the City. To nominate someone who has made a meaningful impact on Toronto, visit: the Mayor's website.
Quotes:
“Toronto is a city where creativity and culture come together in powerful ways. Maggie Kang is one of the artists who brings that to life, with storytelling that is both personal and globally recognized. One of those stories, KPop Demon Hunters, has connected with households across our city and around the world, bringing families together through themes of friendship, identity and belonging. Her work reflects both her Korean heritage and her Toronto roots. On behalf of the people of Toronto, I am proud to present her with the Key to the City.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As an Official Host City for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City's website or follow us on X, Instagram or Facebook.