Stray Kids says 9th Billboard 200 No. 1 is 'a great honor'

Seoul, August 18 (Yonhap) -- K-pop boy band Stray Kids expressed deep gratitude on Tuesday for their ninth consecutive album reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200, considering the feat a significant milestone for the group and K-pop music as a whole. Billboard previewed the chart on Sunday, stating that Stray Kids' 10th extended play, "This & That," had dominated the chart that week.

The Korean boy group now holds the second-most Billboard 200 No. 1 albums in history, with only The Beatles surpassing them, who hold 19 No. 1 albums, and sharing the record with The Rolling Stones.

Stray Kids stated in a statement released through their agency, JYP Entertainment, that they achieved their ninth consecutive No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in their ninth year since debut, almost as if it was meant to be. This latest success also marks the record for the most No. 1 albums by a group in the 21st century. Their EP "This & That," comprising eight tracks including the title track, reflects their bold attitude and confidence in pursuing their desires without conforming to societal norms.

Stray Kids' previous No. 1 chart-toppers include "Oddinary" and "Maxident" in 2022, "5-Star" and "Rock-Star" in 2023, "Ate" and "Hop" in 2024, and "Karma" and "Do It" in 2025. The group credited their dedicated fanbase, known as "Stay," for their achievement, stating that it was the unwavering support from their fans that helped them get to this point.

The members of Stray Kids pledged to keep expanding their musical spectrum and staying true to their unique path. The band emphasized that, as the name suggests, they will continue to find and follow their own path, aiming to showcase the limitless growth of not only Stray Kids but also the K-pop industry to music fans worldwide.