BTS ‘Dynamite’ First English Song in History to Win on a Music Show in Korea

“BTS “Dynamite” becomes the first English song in history to win on a music show in Korea, how beautiful is that? BTS ‘Dynamite’ video was watched 101.1 million times in 24 hours after its release last Friday 21^st August 2020. The video surpassed the previous record, set at 86.3 million views in 24 hours in June.

BTS’ achievement of winning on a Korean music show with “Dynamite,” their first fully English-language song, represents not just a monumental moment in the group’s history, but also in the history of K-pop itself. The victory is symbolic of both BTS’s global reach and the evolving landscape of the South Korean music industry, which has always been known for its emphasis on the Korean language in popular music. This achievement speaks volumes about BTS’s impact, the increasing internationalization of K-pop, and the changing dynamics of what constitutes success in the music industry.

“Dynamite,” released in August 2020, marked BTS’s first venture into an entirely English-language track. The song was an instant global hit, breaking numerous records, including the record for the most-viewed YouTube video in the first 24 hours of release. Its upbeat, disco-pop sound and infectious melody not only showcased the members’ versatility but also tapped into a global market looking for something positive and feel-good during the difficult year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

While the song’s success was undeniable worldwide, there was a certain skepticism within the K-pop industry about whether an English song could resonate with the domestic Korean audience. The Korean music industry had always placed a strong emphasis on the use of the Korean language, with many artists carefully crafting their songs to reflect the cultural and linguistic nuances of the country. But BTS’s achievement proved that language was no longer a barrier, and music could transcend linguistic boundaries.

BTS has always been a group that pushes boundaries—whether it’s with their genre-blending music, their thoughtful lyrics that touch on mental health and self-love, or their engagement with global social issues. The group has built a massive international fanbase, ARMY, who support them not just for their music, but also for their authenticity, artistry, and values. With “Dynamite,” BTS embraced their international audience fully and acknowledged the global appeal of their music.

The song’s success was a direct result of BTS’s ability to unite people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. While “Dynamite” is sung in English, its themes of hope, joy, and unity are universal, and the catchy beat is something that transcends language. The impact of BTS’s success with “Dynamite” is reflected in the group’s continued rise to international superstardom, as well as the increasing prominence of K-pop groups on the global stage.

K-pop, as an industry, has always been fiercely protective of its cultural roots. The domestic market has traditionally favored songs that are primarily in Korean, as the language is a core element of K-pop’s identity. The concept of an all-English song dominating both local and international charts was, for many, a foreign and even risky idea. However, the global success of BTS has shattered this notion, signaling that language is not a limitation but a choice in a globalized world.

This shift in mindset has been crucial for BTS. The group’s ability to seamlessly balance their Korean roots with international appeal has played a significant role in their success. The members have made a conscious effort to connect with their global fanbase without forsaking their Korean identity. Their use of English in “Dynamite” was not an attempt to abandon their native tongue but a strategic move to reach out to an even broader audience. By doing so, BTS demonstrated that K-pop could evolve without losing its essence, and this has opened the door for other K-pop acts to embrace global markets without fear of alienating their home base.

In fact, the success of “Dynamite” has paved the way for other K-pop groups to experiment with English songs, further blurring the lines between what constitutes K-pop and global pop music. The group’s ability to thrive in both markets has provided a blueprint for future acts, creating a new standard for K-pop’s global success. BTS’s win on a Korean music show for “Dynamite” also challenges the idea that K-pop’s success is only valid within the confines of the domestic Korean market. Winning a prestigious music show award in Korea with an English-language song underscores the group’s worldwide influence and ability to resonate with both local and international audiences. It’s a testament to their artistry, their global influence, and the respect they have earned in the industry, regardless of the language they sing in.

The significance of this win cannot be overstated. It highlights a broader cultural shift within Korea’s entertainment industry. Music shows like “M Countdown” and “Inkigayo” have long been regarded as the gold standard for determining success in the Korean music scene, with awards based on chart performance, digital sales, and fan votes. For BTS, a group that has already dominated international charts, to win on a Korean show with an English-language song signals that the definition of success in K-pop is no longer confined to language, geography, or cultural boundaries. BTS has shown that the industry must adapt to the changing tides of global pop culture, and it’s clear that other acts will follow suit.

BTS’s success with “Dynamite” has set a precedent for what is possible for future K-pop groups. The industry’s increasing reliance on international markets, particularly the United States, has led to a rise in the number of K-pop songs and albums being released in English. While it’s still uncertain whether the Korean language will always take a backseat in K-pop, BTS’s achievement proves that it’s no longer the only way to make it in the industry.

The influence of “Dynamite” will likely encourage more K-pop artists to explore music in English, but it will also force them to rethink what it means to be a K-pop artist in the first place. Will the success of English-language songs become the norm, or will K-pop maintain its commitment to the Korean language? Only time will tell. However, one thing is certain: BTS has forever changed the landscape of K-pop, and their historic win with “Dynamite” will be remembered as a key turning point in the genre’s evolution.

BTS’s victory with “Dynamite” on a Korean music show is not just a triumph for the group, but also for K-pop as a whole. It is proof that music, when done right, can transcend language barriers and unite people across the world. As BTS continues to break records and set new standards, their legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of artists to take risks, push boundaries, and create music that speaks to the hearts of people everywhere, regardless of the language it’s sung in. BTS has shown the world that the power of music is universal, and their influence on the global stage will be felt for years to come.

When the video premiered it had more than three million fans also tuned to watch the countdown live. This is double the previous record for a premier. ‘Dynamite’ BTS’s first single to be sung entirely in English since BTS said they wanted it to convey “purity, positive vibes, hope, energy, and love” With such awesome records, it is no wonder the single is already picking up wins!