Excitement Builds for the 97th Academy Awards with BLACKPINK's Lisa and Star-Studded Lineup

The 97th Academy Awards, set to be broadcast exclusively on OCN on March 3 (7 PM local time on March 2 in the U.S.), has announced an exciting lineup of presenters and performers, generating significant buzz. Notably, BLACKPINK's Lisa will make history as the first K-pop artist to perform at the Oscars, heightening anticipation for the event.

#1. Star-Studded Presenter Lineup!

The list of presenters for the upcoming ceremony is nothing short of spectacular. Among those confirmed are Cillian Murphy (Best Actor winner), Emma Stone (Best Actress winner), Robert Downey Jr. (Best Supporting Actor), and Da'Vine Joy Randolph (Best Supporting Actress) from last year's awards. Additionally, past winners such as Halle Berry, Penélope Cruz, Whoopi Goldberg, and young stars like Elle Fanning, Scarlett Johansson, and Amy Poehler will grace the stage, promising a memorable evening.

The nominees this year are equally impressive, featuring Hollywood heavyweights like Timothy Chalamet from "Dune: Part 2," Ariana Grande from "Wicked," and Demi Moore, who has showcased a remarkable transformation in her role in "Substance." The competition is fierce, with viewers eager to see who will take home the coveted Oscar trophy.

#2. Conan O'Brien Hosts and a Star-Studded Performance Lineup!

The ceremony will be hosted by the globally popular comedian Conan O'Brien, marking his first time at the Oscars. His signature humor and wit are expected to create a dynamic atmosphere, and fans are curious to see what legendary moments will unfold. O'Brien's previous visit to Korea in 2016, alongside actor Steven Yeun, has made him a familiar face to local audiences, adding to the excitement surrounding his hosting debut.

This year’s performance lineup includes BLACKPINK's Lisa, Doja Cat, Raye, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Queen Latifah, and the LA Master Chorale, all set to deliver a spectacular show. The Academy has indicated that the performances will focus on the composers' artistry and the stories behind the nominated songs, further building anticipation for a unique experience.

#3. Dynamic Trio of Hosts and Innovative Live Translation!

The broadcast will feature a notable change in its hosting lineup. Announcer and interpreter Ahn Hyun-mo, who has been a staple since the 91st Academy Awards, will return alongside pop columnist Kim Tae-hoon. Joining them is director Lee Kyung-mi, known for her work on "Health Teacher Ahn Eun-young" and "The Secret is Out," bringing her unique perspective to the commentary.

In a groundbreaking move, OCN will introduce real-time AI translation technology for the first time in Korean broadcasting, enhancing the viewing experience. This innovative approach, powered by XL8's advanced speech-to-text technology, aims to deliver the ceremony's excitement and emotion to viewers in real-time.

Additionally, OCN is hosting a prediction event on its official social media, allowing fans to guess the winners in major categories for a chance to win prizes. The event runs from February 20 to February 27, adding another layer of engagement for viewers ahead of the awards.

Tune in to the 97th Academy Awards on March 3 at 9 AM KST on OCN, with live streaming available on TVING.