By Rosa Gulliver of TINYGMUSIC| 23rd June 2023
1 Billion Spotify Streams and Counting: K-Pop's Biggest Stars
Ever wondered who's leading the K-pop streaming revolution and racking up billions of Spotify plays? You've probably heard of BTS, the seven-member South Korean boy band that's broken record after record. With over 31 billion streams and counting, they are Spotify's most-streamed K-pop artists. But BTS isn't the only group generating major streaming numbers. BLACKPINK, TWICE, and ENHYPEN have all joined the billion-stream club, solidifying their positions as K-pop's most influential streaming powerhouses. Their massive global fandoms have catapulted them into the upper echelons of the music industry.
In just a few short years, K-pop has become a streaming juggernaut, and these artists are at the forefront of its success. If you haven't listened to them yet, you're missing out on some of the most popular and influential music in the world. Press play on one of their songs and join the ARMY, Blinks, Onces, or Engene’s to experience what all the hype is about. With their catchy beats, synchronised choreographies, and charismatic members, one thing is for sure - these K-pop superstars are here to stay and ready to rack up many more billions of streams.
BTS: The K-pop group that changed the music industry
BTS, also known as Bangtan Sonyeondan, which translates to "Bulletproof Boy Scout" or "Bangtan Boys" in Korean, is the South Korean boy band that has taken the world by storm. Since their debut in 2013, BTS has been accumulating accomplishments, breaking records, and pushing boundaries.
In 2022, BTS became the first K-pop group to have two songs - "Dynamite" and "Butter" surpass 1 billion streams on Spotify. Wow, what an incredible achievement! Their catchy songs, amazing dance moves, and messages of inclusivity and self-love resonate with fans worldwide.
BTS has also collaborated with Western artists like Halsey, Charli XCX, and Coldplay. Their collaboration with Coldplay, "My Universe," joined BTS's other hits in the billion-streams club in 2023. These cross-cultural collaborations have introduced BTS's talent and artistry to an even larger audience.
With their devoted fan base, the BTS ARMY, behind them, BTS has become an unstoppable force in the music industry. They've won numerous MTV VMAs, Billboard Music Awards and have even addressed the United Nations. BTS is blazing a trail for K-pop on the global stage, and there's no sign of them slowing down anytime soon. Their dynamic style resonates with people around the world.
BTS's meteoric rise is a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries. Their impact on pop culture is undeniable, and they've become role models for fans around the world. BTS is making history with every song, performance, and achievement.
BTS celebrating their 1st 1 billion Spotify streams
When BTS earned their first billion streams on Spotify for "Dynamite," they celebrated in style by eating bibimbap off the commemorative plaque!
The K-pop superstars shared a video of themselves enjoying the delicious Korean mixed rice dish directly from the Spotify plaque. It was a playful tribute to Drake, who initiated the trend of eating off the plaques. He shared a video of himself indulging in spaghetti from his plaque to celebrate reaching a billion streams with his song "In My Feelings."
Reaching 1 billion Spotify streams was a huge milestone, and BTS celebrated it in their own unique way by showing their appreciation to ARMY with an adorable and heartfelt moment.
BTS has dominated Spotify, becoming the first K-pop group to surpass 1 billion and 2 billion streams. Songs like "Boy With Luv" (feat. Halsey) joined "Dynamite" in reaching the billion streams club. Their global fan base has fueled their success by streaming the group's music and sharing it with friends.
It's not just BTS singles that break into the 1 billion Spotify stream club
BTS may have paved the way, but other K-pop groups and solo artists are hitting the big leagues reaching the 1 billion stream milestone on Spotify.
Solo artist PSY, the “GANGNAM STYLE” sensation, unsurprisingly has several singles cumulatively surpassing 1 billion streams. Big Hit labelmates TXT and SEVENTEEN have also joined the club, showcasing the company’s talent for producing groups with major streaming power and global fandoms.
Boy band EXO has reached this milestone with several singles cumulatively surpassing 1 billion streams under their belt, their biggest being “Love Shot.”
K-pop is dominating Spotify, and artists from a range of labels and in different styles are attracting dedicated listeners who stream their songs on repeat. As the genre continues to gain mainstream popularity worldwide, more and more K-pop artists will likely reach the 1 billion stream milestone and beyond. The “Hallyu” wave is still growing, and streaming numbers prove that K-pop is a musical force that is here to stay.
BTS have broken records in 2023 despite not releasing music
Even though BTS didn't release any new music in 2023, their massive back catalogue of hits continues to break records on Spotify.
Their music has been streamed over 39 billion times, confirming their status as the most streamed male group.
Though BTS took a break from creating new music to fulfil mandatory South Korean military duties and focus on their solo projects, their unparalleled success on Spotify proves their timeless impact and influence. The seven members have become global superstars, global brand ambassadors, and role models thanks to their talent and charisma.
Even without dropping new albums, BTS dominates the charts and breaks their own records. Their discography has become comfort music for ARMY and new fans alike. The group's back catalogue provides the soundtrack for millions of lives, underscoring why they reign as the "Kings of K-pop."
BTS’ Jimin breaks the world record for the fastest solo K-pop artist to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify
BTS vocalist and dancer makes record-breaking history. Jimin, the third youngest member of BTS, has always been a fan favourite. Now, the singer, dancer, and songwriter has achieved a major milestone that confirms his status as an international superstar.
Last month, on May 22, 2023, Jimin surpassed 1 billion streams on Spotify in just 393 days, following in the footsteps of his bandmate Jungkook who set the record just two months prior.
In those 393 days, the majority of the streaming numbers (close to 70%) that contributed to the 1 Billion streams were recorded in the 67 days leading up to achieving this world record. Jimin released his solo album, a six-track EP titled, “Face,” released on Spotify on March 24, 2023. It just goes to show how incredibly well-received his album is and how impactful Jimin already is as a solo artist.
Notably, Jimin was the last BTS member to launch his own Spotify channel, but he is now the fastest K-pop solo artist to reach 1 billion streams.
Streaming Sensation
BTS, as a group, is already a streaming powerhouse, so it comes as no surprise that Jimin’s success as a solo artist is remarkable. His fluid dance moves, angelic voice, and shy yet playful persona have garnered him a devoted following.
Songs like “Lie” and “Serendipity” showcase Jimin’s vocal and performance talents. His releases reflect a versatile musicality, from the lo-fi hip hop of “Promise” to the cheerful holiday tune “Christmas Love.”
BTS Jungkook makes the Guinness World Record as the fastest solo K-pop artist to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify
As the youngest member of BTS, the golden Maknae, Jungkook, has always been ahead of his time. At only 25 years old, he has already smashed records and achieved tremendous success as both a solo artist and a member of the world's biggest band.
On May 9, 2023, Jungkook earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for becoming the fastest solo K-pop artist to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify. He accomplished this feat in just 409 days with only three songs: “Euphoria,” “My Time,” and “Still With You.”
Without even releasing an official solo album yet, Jungkook has already amassed a massive global following due to his captivating vocals, impressive dance abilities, and magnetic stage presence.
At the rate Jungkook’s success and popularity are growing, his future as a solo artist looks extremely bright. His meteoric rise to become the most streamed K-pop soloist is a testament to his innate star power and the unwavering dedication of his fans. Jungkook possesses a timeless quality that will enable him to shine as an artist for years to come. The “Golden Maknae” continues to make history and break records, redefining what is possible for K-pop soloists along the way.
Min Yoongi, aka Suga of BTS and Agust D, reached 1 billion streams on Spotify under the three names, becoming the first BTS member to hit this achievement
Yoongi, aka Suga, is the rapper, songwriter, and record producer of BTS. He is most definitely the “King” and the “Boss.” Apart from his work with the group, he has also released solo music under the name Agust D. His rapid-fire flow, clever wordplay, and exceptional production abilities have earned him the title “The King of Flow” in South Korea’s hip-hop scene.
As a member of BTS, Yoongi has co-written and co-produced many of their hits, including “Dope,” “Fire,” and “Blood Sweat & Tears.” His mixtapes as Agust D, including “Agust D” and “D-2,” have also gained immense popularity, highlighting his prowess as a lyricist and producer.
Agust D’s “Daechwita” reached number-one on South Korea’s Gaon Digital Chart, making it the first solo K-pop artist's song to achieve this feat.
His single “Daechwita” also charted at number five on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart, marking a significant first achievement for a solo K-pop artist.
Yoongi’s producing style is inspired by old-school hip-hop beats and samples, which gives BTS’s music an edgy and alternative vibe that appeals to audiences worldwide. His clever wordplay, metaphors, and social commentary as a rapper have resonated with fans. Despite his immense success, Yoongi remains humble, crediting his bandmates and fans for motivating him to continuously improve his craft.
With over 1 billion streams across his work with BTS, Agust D, and collaborative singles, Yoongi has solidified his status as an icon in South Korea’s hip-hop scene, and one of K-pop’s most prominent artists. His versatile talent, memorable songs, and production skills are likely to continue earning him more achievements and accolades in the years to come.
Kim Taehyung surpasses 1 billion streams on Spotify across all credits without releasing an album or mixtape
When it comes to streaming, Kim Taehyung is in a league of his own. He is a streaming sensation. In July 2022, he became the first and only artist to surpass 1 billion streams on Spotify without releasing a single album or mixtape. Talk about making streaming history!
Taehyung has achieved this jaw-dropping milestone through a modest catalogue of just three OSTs (original soundtrack songs) and three solo tracks. His smooth vocals and expressive style have deeply resonated with fans, propelling songs like “Sweet Night,” “Winter Bear,” and “Christmas Tree” to stratospheric streaming success.
“Sweet Night,” Taehyung’s OST for the K-drama “Itaewon Class,” accounts for over half of his streams at 311 million and counting. The dreamy, guitar-driven track showcases Taehyung’s honeyed tone and gift for conveying tender emotion.
His self-composed song “Winter Bear” has racked up over 200 million streams, showcasing the impact of Taehyung’s sincere, heartfelt, self-produced music.
The festive “Christmas Tree” has brought holiday cheer to over 297 million listeners and has become a seasonal favourite.
A pioneer in his own right
By achieving this streaming milestone so early in his career and without a dedicated body of work, Taehyung has proven himself to be a pioneer. He blazes his own trail, crafting music that resonates on a profoundly personal level with fans worldwide. While Taehyung’s meteoric success may seem improbable, his impact comes as no surprise to those who know his singular talent and ability to touch hearts through song. The best is surely yet to come.
J-Hope officially surpassed 1 billion cumulative streams on December 8, 2022, across all credits under his solo Spotify platform
On December 8, 2022, J-Hope became the second Korean male solo artist to surpass 1 billion streams on Spotify under his own name. What an incredible achievement and proof of the dedicated fans who have supported him over the years.
As a member of BTS, J-Hope has achieved tremendous success and set numerous records. However, surpassing over 1 billion streams as a solo artist holds a special significance. His mixtape ‘Hope World’ from 2018 has become his most streamed release, showing how his musical style and message as a soloist resonates with listeners.
Songs like “Daydream,” “Hangsang,” and "P.O.P (Piece of Peace) Pt.1” have resonated with fans due to their uplifting themes of pursuing one's dreams and remaining authentic to oneself.
His other collaborations such as “Chicken Noodle Soup” featuring artist Becky G, have also contributed to boosting his streaming numbers and exposing new audiences to his talent.
Reaching 1 billion streams is an achievement that only a select few K-pop artists have managed to accomplish. J-Hope's accomplishments demonstrate how his dedication, passion, and connection with fans have propelled him to new heights of success, both as a member of the group BTS and now as a solo artist. His streaming power and popularity are expected to continue growing in the coming years.
Congratulations to J-Hope for reaching this streaming milestone! Here's to the next billion and beyond!
BTS' RM surpasses 1 billion streams on Spotify across all credits
As the leader of the global K-pop phenomenon BTS, RM has now achieved an incredible streaming milestone. On December 20, 2022, RM officially reached over 1 billion cumulative streams across all of his credits on Spotify.
RM's top songs driving streams on Spotify include:
Reaching 1 billion streams is a massive achievement and testimony to RM's widespread popularity and influence as an artist. His introspective lyrics, smooth flow, and captivating collaborations with other artists have resonated with listeners worldwide.
RM is known for pushing creative boundaries and exploring new musical styles. His work spans hip-hop, R&B, electronica, and more. RM's streaming success highlights how his experimental and genre-bending songs have resonated with Spotify listeners.
Congrats to RM on his massive streaming achievement and for consistently breaking down barriers with his innovative music! His place in the K-pop history books is well secured.
Kim Seokjin, a.k.a Jin surpassed 1 billion streams on Spotify across all credits
As the oldest member of BTS, Jin has been capturing the hearts of fans since the group’s debut. His soothing vocals and kind personality have earned him a massive following of his own. So, it’s no surprise that his solo work has also found huge success. Jin’s self-written tracks have cumulatively surpassed 1 billion streams on Spotify, solidifying his position as a dominant force in streaming.
Jin’s official solo debut, “The Astronaut,” reached over 5.6 million streams on Spotify in just its first day. At the time, it was the biggest solo debut by any K-pop artist. The emotional pop-rock ballad showcases Jin’s stunning vocals and resonates deeply with fans.
“Yours” from BTS’ 2019 album “Map of the Soul: Persona” has over 170 million streams. The heartfelt R&B track is one of Jin’s most well-known solo songs.
Two OSTs, “It's Definitely You” and “Tonight,” have over 390 million combined streams. Jin’s comforting voice is perfect for emotional drama soundtracks.
Jin’s self-composed track “Awake” from BTS’ 2016 album “Wings” has inspired many fans with its message of following your dreams. It has over 170 million streams.
Jin continues to break records and touch fans with his music. His kind heart, humour, and talent have established him as a role model. As BTS’ worldwide fame grows, Jin’s solo success is likely to continue skyrocketing. His position as a streaming giant is well-deserved.
BLACKPINK: The Power of YG's Girl Group
As the first K-pop girl group to surpass 1 billion streams on Spotify, BLACKPINK has solidified their status as digital queens. Their massive global fandom, known as BLINKs, has propelled their tracks to record-breaking success on the streaming platform.
The “Queens of K-pop,” BLACKPINK were the first K-pop girl group to reach 1 billion streams back in 2019. Now, with over 7 billion and counting, BLINKs have made BLACKPINK a global phenomenon. Their extensive discography includes popular songs like “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” “Kill This Love,” and “Lovesick Girls.”
In December 2020, BLACKPINK's first full-length album, “THE ALBUM,” surpassed 1 billion streams on Spotify, confirming their status as digital trendsetters. The eight-track album showcases the group's signature blend of pop, hip-hop, and EDM.
In May 2022, BLACKPINK's second EP, “Kill This Love,” also joined the billion-stream club. The five-track EP is one of their most ambitious yet, incorporating genres such as pop, hip-hop, EDM, and trap.
Streaming powerhouses
In 2023, BLACKPINK achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first K-pop girl group to surpass 10 billion streams on Spotify. Their meteoric rise serves as a testament to their widespread global appeal and the unwavering dedication of the BLINK fandom.
Through their boundary-pushing sound and style, BLACKPINK has cultivated a following, which has translated into streaming success. As they continue to release new music, their streams will undoubtedly keep climbing into the billions.
BLACKPINK singer and rapper LISA's first solo album ‘LALISA’ reached 1 billion streams on Spotify
When LISA from BLACKPINK released her debut solo single album “LALISA” in September 2021, BLINKs around the world eagerly streamed and downloaded the catchy title track. Within 24 hours, “LALISA” garnered over 73.6 million views on YouTube, breaking the record for the most-viewed music video in its first 24 hours by a solo K-pop artist.
Streaming Sensation
“LALISA” was streamed over 17.1 million times on Spotify within the first 24 hours, making it the second most-streamed song in Spotify history at that time. The infectious melody and its equally captivating music video propelled “LALISA” to over 1 billion streams on Spotify in just over three months.
This milestone makes LISA the first female K-pop soloist to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify, solidifying her status as a streaming powerhouse.
LISA also set a new Guinness World Record for the most viewed YouTube music video in 24 hours by a solo K-pop artist with “LALISA.”
Her charismatic stage presence, rap skills, and catchy songs have earned her over 66 million followers on Instagram, the highest number for a K-pop star.
LISA’s immense popularity and BLACKPINK’s position as the biggest K-pop girl group in the world highlight the growing global influence and streaming power of K-pop.
The runaway success of “LALISA” proves that LISA is a star in her own right, who has carved out a unique space in the K-pop scene. Her debut solo effort showcases her versatility, charisma, and star quality, which will propel her to even greater heights in the future. LISA is poised to continue breaking records and reaching new milestones, solidifying her status as a K-pop icon with a lasting impact and influence.
Rookie K-pop girl group NewJeans becomes the K-pop act to hit 1 billion streams on Spotify
The K-pop girl group NewJeans has taken the world by storm, gaining popularity at an unprecedented rate. In just over 200 days since their debut, NewJeans reached 1 billion streams on Spotify, setting a new Guinness World Record for the fastest K-pop artist to achieve this milestone.
As rookies, this level of success is truly astounding. NewJeans didn’t just surpass veterans with this achievement; they completely shattered the previous record held by BLACKPINK, who reached 1 billion streams in 454 days. With their singles “Hype Boy” and “Attention,” NewJeans gained an enormous amount of attention and skyrocketed to new heights at breakneck speed.
New heights and new records
NewJeans also holds the record for being the most streamed K-pop artist in Spotify’s first 24 hours.
They were ranked third globally in Spotify's "2022 Wrapped" rankings when only making their debut debuting on July 22, 2022.
Their popularity and achievements demonstrate the increasing influence of K-pop on mainstream music. NewJeans’ catchy songs, stylish fashion, and fresh image have resonated with listeners worldwide. Their early success bodes well for future milestones and accolades to come, as the group continues to release new music. At this rate, NewJeans may very well become one of the biggest K-pop acts, with streaming numbers and records that will be hard to beat.
So what other K-pop girl groups have joined the Spotify 1 billion streams club?
Other hugely popular K-pop girl groups have joined BLACKPINK and NewJeans in achieving streaming milestones and becoming members of the 1 billion club on Spotify. Red Velvet and TWICE have both surpassed this massive streaming achievement, showcasing the immense power of the K-pop fandom.
Red Velvet, known for their quirky and colourful style, reached 1 billion cumulative streams in early 2022. With mega-hits like “Psycho,” “Bad Boy,” and “Peek-A-Boo” under their belt, ReVeluv (as their fans are called), they have been propelled to new heights.
What K-pop boy groups have joined this elite club other than BTS?
Stray Kids blazed past 2 billion Spotify streams in 2021, sealing their status as leaders of the 4th generation of K-pop. Formed through a reality show in 2017, these self-producing idols have built up a fiercely loyal fanbase with their distinctive fusion of hip-hop, EDM, and rock. Tracks such as “Back Door” and “God’s Menu” propelled them into the billion-stream club.
With 13 members and a vibrant, fresh sound, SEVENTEEN has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. In April 2022, the group, known for hits like “Very Nice” and “Don’t Wanna Cry,” reached 2 billion Spotify streams, making them the 7th K-pop boy group to achieve this milestone. Formed in 2012, these K-pop veterans show no signs of slowing down.
ATEEZ, short for “A Teenager Z,” burst onto the K-pop scene in 2018 and has been steadily gaining popularity ever since. In April 2022, the 8-member group surpassed 1 billion Spotify streams, acknowleding their position as "4th generation favourites.” Renowned for their dynamic and charismatic style, ATEEZ has built up a devoted fan base known as ATINY, with hits like “Wonderland,” “Answer,” and, of course, "Guerilla."
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Formed from the reality show “I-LAND” in 2020, ENHYPEN achieved 1 billion Spotify streams in a record-breaking time of just 20 months after their debut. Their edgy, angsty pop sound and talented members such as Heeseung and Jay, have resonated with Gen Z audiences. Breakout hits like “Given-Taken,” "FEVER," and “Drunk-Dazed” have propelled ENHYPEN into K-pop’s top tier.
These boy groups prove that K-pop’s streaming power extends beyond BTS. By cultivating devoted fan bases, honing signature sounds, and promoting globally, K-pop’s leading men are shaping the future of pop music and ensuring continued streaming success.
Congratulations to the K-pop artists attaining such incredible Spotify streams
So there you have it, the K-pop artists who have achieved the incredible milestone of over 1 billion streams on Spotify and counting. These groups and soloists are truly revolutionising the global music industry and introducing millions of fans worldwide to the addictive sounds of K-pop. Their massive streaming numbers prove that K-pop is not just a passing trend, but rather a genre with enduring popularity and the potential to influence music for years to come. If history is any indication, these streaming giants will continue to break records and overcome obstacles, delivering bringing their distinctive brand of flawlessly produced popular music to audiences worldwide. Keep streaming your favourite K-pop stars for now, you are contributing to the making of music history.