Stray Kids Leads the Billboard 200 Chart
Stray Kids, the immensely popular K-pop ensemble from South Korea, has once again achieved a remarkable milestone in their career. Their latest Korean-language studio album, “KARMA,” debuted at number one on the prestigious Billboard 200 chart. This achievement marks the seventh time that Stray Kids has reached the top spot on the Billboard 200, a remarkable feat that solidifies their position as one of the most successful and impactful musical acts in the industry.
“KARMA,” which was released on August 22, 2025, made an impressive entry into the music scene by securing 313,000 equivalent album units, propelling it to the top of the Billboard 200 chart. This remarkable performance also places “KARMA” as the third biggest album debut of the year 2025, trailing behind only Morgan Wallen’s “I’m the Problem” and The Weeknd’s “Hurry Up Tomorrow.”
Stray Kids’ dominance on the Billboard 200 chart is truly unprecedented, as they have now surpassed other formidable acts such as BTS, Linkin Park, and the Dave Matthews Band by achieving the most number one albums on the chart in this century. Since their initial chart-topping success with “ODDINARY” in 2022, Stray Kids have consistently showcased their musical prowess and creativity through subsequent albums like “Maxident,” “5-Star,” “Rock-Star,” “Ate,” “Hop,” and now “KARMA.”
In anticipation of the album’s release, Stray Kids treated their fans to a visually stunning music video for the lead single, “Ceremony.” The group also embarked on an extensive promotional campaign for the album, making appearances on various stages and variety shows throughout South Korea to engage with their loyal fan base and attract new listeners.
While “KARMA” resonated strongly with audiences worldwide, its impact on digital streaming platforms has been particularly noteworthy. The album garnered an impressive 18.26 million streams on Spotify within the first day of its release, setting a new benchmark for single-day streams by a K-pop album in 2025. This remarkable achievement further underscores Stray Kids’ global influence and appeal within the music industry.
As one of the most influential K-pop groups of the decade, Stray Kids continue to captivate audiences with their innovative sound, vibrant performances, and compelling storytelling. Their ability to consistently produce chart-topping albums and connect with fans on a global scale reaffirms their status as trailblazers in the ever-evolving landscape of popular music. With “KARMA,” Stray Kids have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries, defying expectations, and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.