"For Asia, man, we paved the way"— Fans celebrate as Billboard names BTS the 19th 'Greatest Pop Stars' of the 21st Century

On September 10, 2024, BTS was ranked number 19 on Billboard’s list of the 'Greatest Pop Stars of the 21st Century.' The seven-member group— RM, Jin, Suga, J-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook— has maintained their dominance in the music industry for over a decade, and this recognition further solidifies their global influence.

Billboard selected the top 25 pop stars of the past 25 years and praised BTS for elevating K-pop to new international heights. The publication highlighted their impressive track record of hits and unparalleled fan dedication over the last ten years of pop music. Commenting on how the seven-member group paved the way for other K-pop and Asian acts to reach a global audience, they remarked,

"No K-pop group — or group in general — has been able to accomplish what Bangtan has this century. From creating a global community to expanding K-pop well outside of its genre and delivering seven successful pop star solo acts, BTS truly paved the way.”

Fans of the septet flooded social media to celebrate this remarkable milestone, showing their unwavering support and pride. They mentioned how the group was able to achieve this feat despite the members being away from the spotlight due to their ongoing military service.

A user on X, @btsweetea, referenced the lyrics from RM and Megan Thee Stallion’s latest collaboration NEVA PLAY, and wrote,

"FOR ASIA, MAN, WE PAVED THE WAY!"

"no amount of stan twt hate train will touch the legacy and impact of bts," a fan wrote.

"MY KINGS MADE IT," an X user commented.

"Well deserved! BTS not only redefined K-pop but also shattered global barriers. Their influence goes beyond music, creating a movement that unites fans across the world. Legends in every sense!," a fan remarked.

Several fans also pointed out that the Dynamite group has now transcended the K-pop genre due to their immense global influence.

"BTS is categorized as a greatest pop star and we are arguing with K-pop fans... K-pop is not in the same level as ARMY and BTS," a user commented.

"their impact is undeniable," another person wrote.

"most talented and successful kpop group ever," an X user mentioned.

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Billboard recognizes BTS for redefining K-pop and pop stardom with their global impact

Billboard highlighted the septet for their unprecedented impact on the music industry, comparing their success to that of the Beatles. The K-pop group has set new standards for pop music with their impressive achievements, including six No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and six No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 in the U.S.

The 2013-debuted group's breakthrough came with their English single Dynamite in 2020, which not only marked their first No. 1 on the Hot 100 but also became the highest-charting song by a South Korean act, surpassing PSY’s Gangnam Style. They continued their success with additional chart-topping hits like Butter, their longest-reigning No. 1 single.

The group's achievements have also been recognized by the Grammy Awards, with nominations for five of their songs and notable performances at the 2021 and 2022 ceremonies, adding to their already impressive repertoire.

In this ranking, the septet surpassed notable artists like Katy Perry, Ed Sheeran, Bad Bunny, One Direction, and Bruno Mars. The publication further noted that no other K-pop group, or group in general has accomplished what they have in this century, from building a global fanbase to pushing K-pop beyond its traditional boundaries.

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The group also achieved notable success with seven solo projects before beginning their mandatory military service in South Korea in 2023.