Stray Kids Achieve Historic Seventh Billboard 200 No.1 Win

Stray Kids have once again conquered the Billboard 200, claiming their historic seventh No.1 album with KARMA. The record breaks BTS’s previous mark, cementing their place in K-pop history. With powerful tracks and personal storytelling, the group’s momentum shows no signs of slowing.

Stray Kids Capture Billboard 200’s Top Spot Once More

Stray Kids have landed at No.1 on the Billboard 200 yet again, marking the seventh chart-topping entry of their career. Their fourth full-length album KARMA, released on July 22, surged past the K-Pop Demon Hunters soundtrack to secure the crown. The news arrived via Billboard’s preview article on August 31, confirming their position at the summit of America’s most influential album chart.

Stray Kids Set New K-pop Milestone on Billboard 200

With KARMA’s victory, Stray Kids extended an unbroken streak that began with ODDINARY in 2022 and continued through HOP in 2024. This run now includes seven consecutive Billboard 200 No.1 debuts, surpassing BTS, who earned six. Stray Kids stand alone as the only act in Billboard history to see seven albums debut at No.1, a feat that seemed almost impossible before they achieved it.

The Numbers Behind the Triumph

During the tracking week, KARMA moved 313,000 album units, an impressive career-best for the group. Physical album sales accounted for 296,000 units, while streaming equivalent albums reached 16,000 units and track equivalent albums added another 1,000. The title KARMA combines the meaning of fate and consequence with the added nuance of “Calmer,” representing their belief in soothing negativity through their own positive force. The record delivers a blend of genres, narrating their past struggles, present successes, and future ambitions.

Stray Kids Drive Billboard 200 Victory with Creative Vision

The album’s 11 tracks include the lead single CEREMONY, co-written and produced entirely by 3RACHA—Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han—who have been crafting Stray Kids’ sound since debut. CEREMONY celebrates the moment when hard work, persistence, and resilience finally meet success. It reflects their emotional return from the dominATE world tour, which spanned 34 cities and 54 shows, shattering records and filling stadiums. Each song serves as a personal statement, reinforcing their identity as self-producing artists.

Reflections from the Members

In a press conference, Changbin described KARMA as a heartfelt thank-you to “STAY,” their devoted fan base. Even with an intense schedule, they pursued new challenges, refusing to avoid unfamiliar territory. He recalled moments of uncertainty early in their career, when doubts about their musical path and negative comments weighed heavily. The unwavering trust from fans and fellow members gave them the confidence to move forward. That determination, he believes, ultimately shaped the group’s success.

Growing Popularity in South Korea

While Stray Kids once faced claims that their domestic popularity lagged behind their international presence, the tide has shifted dramatically. Online communities like theqoo buzzed with congratulatory messages following the Billboard 200 announcement. More fans across South Korea are rallying behind the group, signaling a new era where their influence resonates both at home and abroad.

Stray Kids with KARMA Rewrite K-pop Album Sales History

Stray Kids with KARMA reached over three million initial sales and topped Korean charts while breaking Spotify records. The achievement highlighted their global momentum and marked a historic K-pop moment.

Here’s a link to theqoo.

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