SEOUL, September 1 (AJP) - K-pop boy band Stray Kids have claimed their seventh No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart with their latest full-length album.
According to Billboard's preview on Sunday, the group's latest album "Karma" debuted atop the chart, surpassing the soundtrack album of Netflix's animated film "KPop Demon Hunters."
"All seven of the group's Billboard 200 chart entries have debuted at No. 1, beginning with 'Oddinary' in 2022," it said.
Since first topping the chart with "Oddinary" in 2022, the group has achieved consecutive No. 1 debuts with "Maxident," "ATE," "Hop," and three more albums, becoming the K-pop group with the most No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200. The record surpasses K-pop juggernaut BTS, which notched six No. 1s on the chart.
Their latest album, released on Aug. 22, contains 11 tracks, including the title song "Ceremony," which reflects the group’s growth through overcoming various conflicts.
Debuting in March 2018 through a reality show of the same name, the group produces much of its own music through a unit 3RACHA, composed of members Bang-chan, Chang-bin, and Han. With their hip-hop–based sound, the eight members have built a distinctive style through powerful performances.
Critics praised the group's artistry. Music critic Lim Hee-yoon said their success came from "sticking to their own color rather than relying on foreign producers or features," while Jeong Min-jae said that "their participation in songwriting has shaped their individuality, though the group still lacks a hit in South Korea."
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