Global K-pop powerhouse BTS is once again proving its unmatched global influence. While their latest single “SWIM” slipped from No.1 to No.2 on the Billboard Hot 100, the group continues to dominate where it matters most—fan-driven sales and album power.
According to the latest chart preview released by Billboard on April 6 (local time), BTS’s “SWIM,” the title track from their fifth full-length album “ARIRANG,” secured the No.2 position on the Hot 100 chart dated April 11. The song debuted at No.1 last week but was overtaken by Ella Langley’s country track “Choosin’ Texas.”
Fan Power Still Strong: Digital Sales Domination
Even with the slight drop, BTS’s fandom—ARMY—continues to show immense support. “SWIM” recorded an impressive 67,000 downloads, maintaining its No.1 spot on the Digital Song Sales chart for the second consecutive week. Although this marks a 29% decrease from the previous week, the numbers still highlight BTS’s strong purchasing power in the U.S. market.
Billboard 200: A Historic Milestone for K-Pop
While the single chart saw a minor shift, BTS made history on the album side. Their album “ARIRANG” held the top position on the Billboard 200 for the second consecutive week—marking the first time a K-pop act has achieved this milestone.
Driven by balanced performance across metrics—including 114,000 physical album sales—the album also topped the Top Album Sales chart for two straight weeks.
A Meaningful Comeback After Military Hiatus
This achievement carries even greater significance as it marks BTS’s first full-group release in nearly 3 years and 9 months following their military service hiatus. The group’s return has not only met expectations but exceeded them, reaffirming their global dominance.
Next Stop: Massive World Tour
BTS is set to bring their chart-topping energy offline with the kickoff of their “ARIRANG” world tour. The tour begins April 9–12 at Goyang Stadium in South Korea and will expand across approximately 23 countries with a total of 82 shows—one of their largest tours to date.
KOREA FBI Editor’s Comment
BTS isn’t just topping charts—they’re rewriting the rules. Even when they “drop,” they dominate. With unmatched fandom power, record-breaking album sales, and a massive global tour ahead, BTS is entering what might be their most powerful era yet. “SWIM” at No.2? That’s not a fall—it’s a flex.


