Britannica Sources used in this answer

How did BTS become the first K-pop artists to reach number one on the Billboard 200 chart?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

BTS achieved the milestone of reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart with their 2018 album, Love Yourself: Tear.1

The group’s path to this success was built on a foundation of growing international popularity and consistent chart performance. After their EP Love Yourself: Her (2017) became the first K-pop album to reach the top 10 of the Billboard 200, the band continued to expand their global reach through dedicated fan engagement, social media presence, and music that addressed themes such as self-love, individuality, and social issues.12

Following their initial number-one success with Love Yourself: Tear, the group achieved the top spot on the Billboard 200 again with their 2020 album, Map of the Soul: 7. Their momentum was further bolstered by the massive success of English-language singles like "Dynamite" and "Butter," which also topped the Billboard Hot 100, cementing their status as a dominant force in the global music industry.1