BTS, the global K-pop phenomenon, breaks records by topping Japan’s Oricon rankings in the Reiwa era. Their dominance spans singles, albums, DVDs, Blu-rays, digital releases, and streaming, showcasing their unparalleled popularity in Japan. The group’s record-breaking album, ‘BTS, THE BEST,’ surpassed the million-seller mark, solidifying their place in Japanese music history. However, international artists, including BTS, face challenges with a 250% increase in US visa fees, potentially impacting future world tours.
BTS Dominates Multiple Formats
BTS’s success extends across various formats, with album sales comprising 36.6% of their total, followed closely by music DVDs and Blu-rays at 33.8%. Their influence also extends to streaming, accounting for 25% of their sales. The group secured the top spot among foreign artists in eight different sectors, demonstrating their unparalleled versatility.
Since the Reiwa era began in May 2019, no foreign artist has claimed the top spot in Japan’s Oricon rankings until BTS’s groundbreaking achievement. This milestone not only highlights BTS’s global appeal but also signifies a shift in Japan’s music landscape, welcoming diverse cultural influences.
Despite BTS’s triumphs, international artists face challenges beyond music charts. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) implemented a drastic 250% increase in visa fees for musicians touring the country. This decision poses significant financial burdens, potentially hindering future world tours.
BTS’s Landmark Achievements in Japan
- Breaking a 36-year Record: First Foreign Artist Since Michael Jackson to Top Oricon Album Chart
- Unprecedented Success: First Foreign Artist to Lead Oricon Artist Chart Consecutively for Two Years
- Billboard Japan Dominance: Sole Foreign Act to Claim Top Spot on Year-End Artist Chart
- K-pop Trailblazers: Only K-pop Act to Secure Top 5 Position on Billboard Japan Year-End Artist Chart
- Setting the Standard: Pioneering Foreign Act to Lead Reiwa Era Combined Single Chart
- Diamond Honors: First Foreign Act to Achieve RIAJ Diamond Certification with ‘Dynamite,’ Ranking 2nd Overall
- Streaming Sensation: ‘Dynamite’ Emerges as Second-Most Streamed Song in Japan
Impact on K-pop Industry
The visa fee hike directly affects major K-pop companies like HYBE, responsible for managing BTS and other prominent acts. As these companies plan world tour comebacks for artists like NewJeans and Seventeen, fans may encounter obstacles due to escalating visa costs and processing times.
In response to the visa fee hike, international artists must reassess tour strategies and financial budgets. While some may opt for expedited processing, others may seek alternative touring destinations to mitigate expenses and maintain global fan engagement.
BTS’s unprecedented success in Japan’s Oricon rankings marks a significant milestone for foreign artists in the Reiwa era. Despite this achievement, challenges loom with the exorbitant increase in US visa fees, threatening the future of international tours. As BTS continues to inspire millions worldwide, their journey reflects the transformative power of music in transcending cultural boundaries.
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