On October 5, TIME Magazine released the esteemed 2023 list of Next Generation Leaders, identifying ten visionary trailblazers who are actively shaping the future.

Among the notable figures selected for this distinguished list were K-pop sensations, Stray Kids, who have been recognized for their global reach and profound influence in the music industry.

Over the past few years, the genre of K-pop has evolved from just being a music category to a global musical phenomenon. More than just a genre, K-pop has transcended national borders and cultural boundaries, unifying diverse global audiences and creating a worldwide community. This goes hand in hand with the broader goal of music: breaking down walls and using the universal language of melody and rhythm to bring people together, irrespective of their backgrounds or walks of life.

This year, the K-pop acts that left an indelible mark on the industry, as highlighted by TIME Magazine, were Stray Kids and New Jeans. NewJeans was selected in May, but each group has made substantial leaps in their musical journey, leaving an incredible impact on their countless fans worldwide.

TIME explained, "Stray Kids found global success by embracing a new sound" and "Straying from expectations became a recipe for global success," noting the various feats Stray Kids achieved this year, such as topping Billboard 200 with 'Oddinary' and winning the Best K-Pop award at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards in September.

The magazine added, "The band’s grungier headbanging anthems, which incorporate rock, EDM, and even industrial leanings, were initially criticized for being too noisy and eclectic compared to their glossier K-pop contemporaries. Yet instead of shifting gears to pander to expectations for Korean boy groups, Stray Kids embraced their distinct sound."

TIME shared, "Straying from expectations became a recipe for global success...The differences the group once worried would render them stragglers in the K-pop industry have placed Stray Kids at its forefront." 

These groups continue to redefine boundaries in the music world through their talent, hard work, and an unwavering bond with their global fanbase. Their inclusion in TIME's Next Generation Leader list underlines the power of music as a unifying force and their invaluable contribution to the global music scene.

You can PREORDER STRAY KIDS - 樂-STAR Mini Album here!