K-pop has transcended borders and language barriers, becoming a cultural force to be reckoned with. One of the most significant milestones achieved by K-pop acts is being a Billboard 200 chart-topper, a testament to their immense popularity and impact on the global music landscape.
Let’s have a look at the K-pop groups that reached #1 on the Billboard 200 Chart.
BTS
BTS secured their first number-one album on the Billboard 200 chart in 2018 with "LOVE YOURSELF: Tear." This groundbreaking achievement marked a paradigm shift in the global music industry. Since then, BTS has consistently achieved chart-topping success with subsequent albums like “LOVE YOURSELF: Answer,” "MAP OF THE SOUL: PERSONA," "MAP OF THE SOUL: 7," "BE," and “PROOF.”
SuperM
In 2019, SuperM, a supergroup comprising members from different established K-pop groups, made waves in the international music scene. Their self-titled debut album skyrocketed to number one on the Billboard 200, making SuperM the first K-pop group to achieve this feat with a debut release. They showcased K-pop's immense potential and versatility in captivating a global audience.
BLACKPINK
BLACKPINK made history in 2022 by becoming the first Korean girl group to reach the pinnacle of the Billboard 200 with their second studio album, "BORN PINK." Known for their energetic performances, powerful vocals, and captivating visuals, BLACKPINK's international appeal and chart-topping success solidified their position as a force to be reckoned with in the K-pop industry.
Stray Kids
Stray Kids made history as they became the first fourth-generation group to top the Billboard 200 chart. In 2022, two of Stray Kids’ albums, “ODDINARY” and “MAXIDENT,” filled with innovative sounds and powerful lyrics, resonated deeply with listeners, propelling them to the top of the prestigious Billboard 200. Their latest album, “5-STAR,” also managed to top the Billboard 200 chart.
TXT
TXT, also known as Tomorrow X Together, has cemented their place in K-pop history as one of the few groups to achieve the remarkable feat of reaching number one on the prestigious Billboard 200 chart. With their talent, music, and dedication, TXT captivated audiences worldwide. With their latest album, “THE NAME CHAPTER: TEMPTATION,” TXT achieved this milestone in 2023.
The rise of K-pop groups reaching number one on the Billboard 200 has reshaped the global music landscape, breaking down barriers and challenging traditional notions of success in the industry. With their groundbreaking achievements, these groups have demonstrated that music has the power to unite and inspire cultures.
I remember when I used to tell people I’m a KPop fan and all they could name was Gangnam Style, how times have changed! It’s truly incredible to see just how far KPop has come. I can’t wait to see more groups topping the charts and earning the global recognition they deserve.