BTS Jimin Makes History: First Korean Solo Artist to Top Billboard ‘Hot 100’ Highlighted by The New York Times

BTS member Jimin has garnered global attention, being spotlighted by The New York Times. The publication listed Jimin’s achievement of topping the Billboard ‘Hot 100’ as one of the 20 Things that Happened for the First Time in 2023, placing it third on their list.

The New York Times annually compiles the ‘Turning Point’ series, reviewing unprecedented events of the year and their future impact, describing them as a succession of amazing and serious events and trends that have never happened before. This series encompasses global social, scientific, space, and environmental issues, and in the music category, Jimin’s achievement of reaching number one on the ‘Hot 100’ was uniquely recognized.

Ten years after his debut, Jimin released his first solo album ‘FACE’ on March 24, preceded by the track ‘Set Me Free PT2.’ The title track ‘Like Crazy’ included in the album created a global sensation. Notably, ‘Like Crazy’ made history in Billboard’s 65-year history by becoming the first K-pop solo track to top the main singles chart. Jimin also marked his debut as the 66th ‘Hot Shot,’ proving his global power and influence as a solo artist.

The New York Times highly praised this achievement, stating that Jimin is the first Korean solo artist to achieve this position on the chart, which signifies the most popular song in America for a week. The publication recognized the significance of Jimin’s success and his role as a pivotal figure in shaking up the mainstream American music scene with a Korean song that transcends K-pop.

Furthermore, Jimin became the first and only Korean solo artist to top Billboard’s ‘Artist 100.’ His song ‘Like Crazy’ received a Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), marking another first for a Korean solo artist. His album ‘FACE’ also achieved the ‘Golden Disc Platinum’ certification from the Japan Record Association (RIAJ) as the first Western album to do so, sweeping both single and album charts globally with unprecedented records.

‘FACE’ set the record for the highest debut sales for a Korean solo album released this year on the ‘United World Chart’ and was the most nominated Korean solo artist in Billboard’s year-end tally. Jimin also won the 2023 MAMA Best Male Artist Award, shining brightly as a K-pop solo artist.

Jimin’s first solo album, filled with authentic stories in his language, not only captivated music fans worldwide but also earned recognition from numerous global music experts, solidifying his status as an iconic figure of this era.

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