Stray Kids Makes History with Billboard Chart Milestone

Stray Kids has achieved a historic milestone on the Billboard charts, marking their place as the first artist to debut at number one with six consecutive albums. Their latest release, SKZHOP HIPTAPE '合 (HOP)', has propelled them to the top of the Billboard 200 chart for the week of December 28, 2024. This accomplishment comes just six years after their debut and two years after their first entry on the Billboard charts, solidifying their influence in the global music scene.

According to the official announcement from Billboard on December 24, Stray Kids has now reached the number one spot on the Billboard 200 for the sixth time, a record that has stood since the chart's inception in March 1956. They first made their mark on the chart with their mini-album ODDINARY in 2022, which debuted at number one, signaling the start of their historic journey. Following that, they achieved the same feat with their mini-album MAXIDENT later that year, and again with their third studio album ★★★★★ (5-STAR) and mini-album 樂-STAR in 2023. Their fifth number one came with the mini-album ATE in July 2024.

Stray Kids has now set a remarkable record as the first group to achieve six consecutive number one entries on the Billboard 200, a feat previously only matched by the late American rapper DMX among global artists. They have also become the K-pop artist with the most number one hits on the Billboard 200, further establishing their dominance in the music industry.

The group's success has been widely covered by major international media outlets, including Billboard, Forbes, Rolling Stone, and NME, which have praised their achievements as groundbreaking and a testament to their hard work and dedication.

The significance of this achievement is amplified by the fact that all members of Stray Kids actively participated in the production of their self-produced album. Their journey began with leader Bang Chan handpicking the members and showcasing their original compositions during their debut reality show, Stray Kids. From their pre-debut mixtape to their latest release, each album has been a testament to their growth and unique musical identity.

The new album '合 (HOP)' features contributions from the group's production team 3RACHA, consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, along with members Lee Know, Hyunjin, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N. This album introduces a new genre they have coined 'SKZHOP HIPTAPE', blending the perfect harmony of the eight members with the essence of hip-hop. It includes 12 tracks, showcasing a mix of old-school hip-hop and individual member solo songs, further expanding their musical repertoire.

In discussing their title track 'Walkin' On Water', the members expressed that the concept of walking on water symbolizes the extraordinary efforts they have made to reach their current position, thanks to the support of their fans and each other. Stray Kids has proven that through their relentless dedication and synergy with their fans, they can achieve what seems impossible, earning them the title of 'history makers'.

This year, Stray Kids has also made their mark by entering the Billboard Hot 100 for the third time, achieving six consecutive number ones on the Billboard 200, and winning at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards for the second consecutive year. Their world tour, which began in August at the KSPO Dome in Seoul, will continue into the new year, covering 32 regions with 48 shows, including a historic performance at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, making them the first K-pop artist to perform there. They will also share stages with global icons like Paul McCartney, Madonna, Beyoncé, and Coldplay.

In July, Stray Kids announced their re-signing with JYP Entertainment, emphasizing their commitment to continue their journey together as a group. As they tighten their shoelaces and prepare to soar, Stray Kids is ready to take on the vast sky ahead.