Rosé and KPop Demon Hunters scored the biggest global hits of 2025
BBC World
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rosé and KPop Demon Hunters made history in 2025, dominating global music charts with their groundbreaking hits. Rosé’s collaboration with Bruno Mars, *APT*, became the year’s biggest song, amassing over two billion streams and marking the first time a non-English track topped the IFPI annual chart. Meanwhile, Huntr/X’s "Golden" from Netflix’s *KPop Demon Hunters* claimed the second spot, further solidifying K-pop’s global influence. This milestone reflects a significant shift in the music industry, highlighting the growing popularity of non-Western artists and languages.
The success of *APT* is particularly notable for its blend of Korean and English elements, with the chorus repeating "아파트" (apartment) and featuring spoken Korean phrases. This achievement underscores the global appeal of K-pop, which has long been dominated by Western artists. The IFPI chart’s top 10 also included other K-pop acts, such as Saja Boys’ *Soda Pop*, showcasing the genre’s widespread reach. Additionally, the list featured international stars like Alex Warren and Benson Boone, but no British artists made the cut for the second consecutive year.
The global charts highlight a cultural evolution in music consumption, with older songs continuing to dominate the top 10 singles. Taylor Swift’s *The Fate of Ophelia* appeared on the list, while her album *The Life of a Showgirl* ranked highly as well. This reflects the enduring popularity of established artists alongside rising global stars. The inclusion of diverse voices and languages in the charts signals a broader cultural shift, with K-pop leading the way in breaking down traditional barriers in the music industry.
Overall, 2025 saw a historic moment for global music, with Rosé and KPop Demon Hunters at the forefront. Their success not only celebrates artistic innovation but also marks a turning point in how the world consumes music. This shift matters because it challenges the dominance of Western artists and languages, fostering greater cultural diversity and inclusivity in global entertainment. As K-pop continues to rise, it’s clear that the future of music is more inclusive and interconnected than ever before.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/19/2026