Global sensation BTS has once again broken records, as their music video for the hit single “Idol” surpassed 1.3 billion views on YouTube as of Wednesday, according to their label Big Hit Music. This achievement marks the group’s fifth music video to reach such a milestone, following the success of “Dynamite,” “Boy With Luv (Feat. Halsey),” “DNA,” and “Mic Drop (Steve Aoki Remix).”
Originally released in August 2018, “Idol” quickly gained widespread recognition, not only for its infectious energy and vibrant visuals but also for its unique blend of traditional Korean cultural elements with modern pop influences. The music video went on to win Music Video of the Year at the 2018 E! People’s Choice Awards, further solidifying BTS’ status as global icons.
“Idol” was the lead single from the group’s “Love Yourself: Answer” album, a compilation that marked the conclusion of their highly successful “Love Yourself” series. The track was met with both critical and commercial acclaim, debuting at No. 11 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart in the U.S. and landing at No. 21 on the UK’s Official Singles Top 100 chart. These chart positions underscored the group’s growing dominance in both Western and international markets, a significant achievement for a Korean-language track.
Beyond its chart success, the “Love Yourself: Answer” album itself made history, spending an impressive 98 weeks on the Billboard 200 chart, including a 31-week continuous streak. This marked the group’s second album to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, a feat that was largely unprecedented for non-English speaking artists. The record-breaking performance of both the album and the single further emphasized BTS’ ability to transcend language barriers and captivate a global audience.
The continued success of “Idol” reflects BTS’ lasting impact on the music industry, where they have repeatedly pushed the boundaries of K-pop and redefined what it means to be a global artist. Their integration of cultural motifs, combined with genre-blending music, has set them apart in an increasingly competitive industry. By incorporating elements of Korean traditional music, dance, and visual aesthetics into “Idol,” BTS offered a celebration of their cultural identity while simultaneously appealing to a worldwide fanbase, known as ARMY.
With “Idol” joining the ranks of BTS’ other billion-view music videos, the group’s influence on YouTube and other digital platforms remains undeniable. Their ability to amass such large viewership numbers consistently points to the group's extensive global reach, as well as the loyalty of their fanbase. Each milestone BTS achieves is a testament to their musical innovation, as well as the dedicated support of millions of fans around the world.
As BTS continues to set new records and expand their artistic legacy, the music video for “Idol” serves as yet another reminder of their trailblazing role in the global music industry. With each achievement, BTS is not only making history for themselves but also paving the way for future generations of artists to reach beyond borders and genres.
Sayart / Eyeon Choi, beyond.atelier@gmail.com
