
KPop stars scored the biggest global hit songs of 2025
APT by Rosé and Bruno Mars and tracks from KPop Demon Hunters were among the biggest hits of the year.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"landmark moment"
— Victoria Oakley , Executive
"landmark moment"
— Victoria Oakley , Executive
Key People
Alex Warren is a popular American singer recognized for his compelling singles in the pop genre.
Benson Boone is an emerging American singer-songwriter known for his melodic pop songs.
Billie Eilish is a prominent singer and songwriter known for her unique style and voice.
Bruno Mars is a renowned singer, songwriter, and music producer.
Gracie Abrams is a singer-songwriter recognized for her emotional lyrics.
HUNTR/X is a girl group associated with the K-pop industry and the animated film KPop Demon Hunters.
Kendrick Lamar is an influential American rapper and songwriter.
Lady Gaga is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her musical versatility and groundbreaking performances.
Lola Young is a British singer-songwriter who gained recognition for her breakthrough pop singles.
Rosé is a South Korean singer and member of the girl group Blackpink, known for her solo and collaborative work.
Saja Boys is a musical group known for their contributions to the K-pop genre.
SZA is an American singer and songwriter known for her soulful music.
Taylor Swift is a highly acclaimed singer-songwriter.
Teddy Swims is a musician known for his powerful vocals.
Victoria Oakley is the CEO of the IFPI, which tracks global music sales and publishes annual industry charts.
Tags
All Coverage
APT by Rosé and Bruno Mars and tracks from KPop Demon Hunters were among the biggest hits of the year.
Rosé's "APT." topped the IFPI's Global Single Chart for 2025, marking the first time an artist outside North America or Europe achieved this. "Golden" by HUNTR/X ranked second.
Rosé's collaboration with Bruno Mars, "APT.", topped the IFPI's Global Single Chart for 2025, marking the first time a K-pop artist has achieved this feat. HUNTR/X's "Golden" secured the second position, with "Soda Pop" by Saja Boys also making the top 20.
Rosé and Bruno Mars's "APT." was named the best-selling global single of 2025 by the IFPI, marking Rosé as the first K-pop artist to top the chart. "Golden" by HUNTR/X ranked second, with "Soda Pop" by Saja Boys also in the top 20.
Rosé and Bruno Mars's "APT." topped the IFPI's Global Single Chart for 2025, with "Golden" by HUNTR/X in second place. "Soda Pop" by Saja Boys also featured in the top 20.
"APT." by Rosé and Bruno Mars was named the best-selling global single of 2025 by the IFPI, marking the first time a non-English song topped the chart. "Golden" by HUNTR/X ranked second.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Songs created by AI banned from Australia's music charts
The move comes weeks after a DJ admitted using AI to remix a Madonna song that topped the Australian charts.
August 25, 2026 at 04:54 AMSouth Korea media commission says Meta's youth protection changes should apply globally - Reuters
South Korea media commission says Meta's youth protection changes should apply globally Reuters
August 27, 2026 at 06:40 AMPaul Heaton scores first number one album as Dolly Parton's 9 to 5 finally reaches top 40
Heaton's solo album tops the chart, while Parton's 1980 US hit reaches the UK top 40 at last.
August 28, 2026 at 04:48 PMDutch broadcaster AvroTros to boycott 2027 Eurovision Song Contest - Reuters
Dutch broadcaster AvroTros to boycott 2027 Eurovision Song Contest Reuters
August 24, 2026 at 08:48 AMCharli XCX electrifies Reading Festival with era-spanning set
The British singer and Irish rock band Fontaines DC both headlined the first night of Reading for 2026.
August 28, 2026 at 11:34 PMEsports World Cup ends with surprise win for China-based team
AG.AL claim the overall title and $7m (£5.1m) top prize at the third Esports World Cup in Paris.
August 24, 2026 at 10:01 AM