Stray Kids, the globally celebrated K-pop group, have solidified their position as trailblazers in the global music scene. Their latest album SKZHOP HIPTAPE: 合 (HOP) has debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, making them the first artist in history to achieve six consecutive No. 1 entries on the chart since its inception in 1956.
According to Billboard's December 22 announcement, HOP amassed approximately 187,000 album-equivalent units in its first week following its release on December 13. This milestone places Stray Kids alongside global music legends such as BTS, Linkin Park, and Dave Matthews Band for the most No. 1 albums by a group on the Billboard 200 in the 21st century.
The group first topped the Billboard 200 in 2022 with their mini-album ODDINARY. Since then, they have reached No. 1 with every subsequent release, including MAXIDENT (2022), ★★★★★ (5-STAR) (2023), 樂-STAR (2023), and ATE (2024). This remarkable achievement underscores their meteoric rise, becoming the first K-pop group and only the second artist globally, after DMX, to debut six consecutive albums at the top.
The self-produced SKZHOP HIPTAPE: 合 (HOP) introduces a "new genre" that defies traditional classifications, exemplifying the group’s innovative artistry. The title, HOP, represents both the album's central theme of unity (合) and a nod to the hip-hop genre. Its lead single, Walkin On Water, is a powerful anthem comparing the group's unwavering confidence to walking on water, overcoming challenges with determination and flair.
The album’s impact was immediate. It topped the Worldwide iTunes Album Chart on its release day and held the No. 1 position in 28 countries, including Japan and Brazil. The title track also topped the iTunes Top Songs charts in 25 countries, with its music video trending at No. 1 worldwide on YouTube for five consecutive days, amassing millions of views.
Stray Kids' achievements extended beyond album sales. At the 2024 Billboard Music Awards on December 12, the group won the Top Global K-pop Artist award for the second consecutive year, further cementing their dominance. They also claimed top spots in the Billboard Year-End charts, including No. 1 and No. 2 on the World Albums chart and No. 1 on the World Albums Artist chart.
Currently on their largest world tour to date, Stray Kids World Tour <dominATE>, the group has been performing in 32 cities across 48 shows. In 2025, they will embark on a massive stadium tour, with performances in iconic venues such as Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium and New York's Citi Field, reaching fans in Latin America, North America, and Europe.
As Stray Kids continue to push boundaries with their innovative music and global appeal, they remain a testament to the growing influence and artistry of K-pop on the world stage.
Sayart / ReaA JUNG, queen7203@gmail.com
