Stray Kids Makes History on Billboard with Latest Album

Stray Kids has achieved a remarkable milestone on the Billboard charts. According to a report released on December 22, the group's latest album, SKZHOP HIPTAPE '合 (HOP)', which was released on December 13, has sold approximately 187,000 copies in its first week in the U.S. This impressive sales figure has propelled the album to the top of the Billboard 200 chart for the week of December 28, marking Stray Kids' sixth time reaching number one on this chart.

Stray Kids is now the first artist in 69 years since the Billboard 200's inception in 1956 to have six albums debut at number one consecutively. This achievement also positions them as the group with the most number one albums on the Billboard 200 in the 2000s, joining the ranks of BTS (방탄소년단), Linkin Park, and the Dave Matthews Band.

The group first topped the Billboard 200 with their mini-album 'ODDINARY' in 2022, followed by 'MAXIDENT' later that year, their third studio album '★★★★★ (5-STAR)' in 2023, and the mini-album '樂-STAR' (Rockstar). With the release of 'ATE' in 2024 and now '合 (HOP)', Stray Kids has achieved an extraordinary record of six consecutive number one debuts.

Since their debut in 2018, Stray Kids has made a significant impact in the K-pop industry, winning eight rookie awards and establishing themselves as a leading new act. They began their global journey the following year, successfully completing their first overseas showcase in countries like Thailand, Jakarta, Melbourne, Sydney, Manila, and major U.S. cities including New York, Houston, and Los Angeles.

The group has also emphasized their unique sound by releasing albums produced by their internal team, 3RACHA, which has resonated with fans both domestically and internationally, contributing to their global success.

In addition to their music, Stray Kids' performances have received widespread acclaim. They kicked off their new world tour, 'Stray Kids World Tour (DOMINATE)', in August at the KSPO DOME in Seoul and have since captivated audiences at solo concerts in Melbourne, Sydney, and Kaohsiung.

Moreover, in October, Stray Kids performed at the American Music Awards (AMA), one of the three major music awards in the U.S., where they paid homage to the iconic boy band NSYNC with a performance of 'Bye Bye Bye' and showcased their hit 'Chic Chic Boom'. They are only the second K-pop group to perform at the AMA, following BTS.

As Stray Kids continues their activities both domestically and internationally, they are captivating fans worldwide with their vibrant performances and charismatic presence. Their unique blend of charm and approachability has solidified their status as a one-of-a-kind artist in Billboard history after 69 years.