In the May 2025 issue of Billboard, J-Hope of BTS graces the cover as the first Korean male solo artist to do so since Psy in 2012. This milestone marks a significant moment in his solo career, reflecting his evolution from a member of a global K-pop phenomenon to a multifaceted artist with a distinct identity.
Reflecting on his journey, J-Hope shared, “Just as I drew inspiration from the artists I admired growing up, shaping my own music through their influence, I’d be honored if my work could inspire others and pass on that same positive energy — that would mean the world to me.” His words encapsulate his desire to inspire and uplift others through his music, a sentiment that resonates deeply with his fans.
J-Hope’s musical evolution is evident in his latest work, particularly in his live performances. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, he discussed the shift in his musical style post-military service, stating, “I wanted to make a song that kind of expressed my maturity after the military service. So, it kind of came naturally.” This maturation is showcased in his current tour, “Hope on the Stage,” which began in Seoul and has since captivated audiences in the United States, Mexico, and is set to continue in Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea.
A notable achievement in J-Hope’s solo career is his performance at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, where he became the first solo Korean artist to headline the venue. This accomplishment underscores his growing influence in the global music scene and his ability to connect with audiences worldwide.
J-Hope’s recent collaborations have also garnered significant attention. His single “LV Bag,” featuring Don Toliver and Pharrell Williams, debuted at No. 83 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking his fifth solo entry on the chart. Additionally, the track reached No. 27 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, making J-Hope the first South Korean artist with multiple hits on this particular chart.
Followed by his next hits, released on March 7, 2025, “Sweet Dreams” quickly ascended the charts, marking a notable achievement in J-Hope’s solo career. The track debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Digital Song Sales chart, indicating it was the best-selling song of the week in the United States.
Additionally, “Sweet Dreams” entered the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 66, making it the highest debut of any K-pop song in 2025 on the chart. This achievement adds to J-Hope’s growing list of solo entries on the Hot 100.
Internationally, the song performed exceptionally well, debuting at No. 12 on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart and No. 16 on the Billboard Global 200. These rankings reflect the global resonance of J-Hope’s music.
Following “Sweet Dreams,” J-Hope released “Mona Lisa,” which debuted at No. 65 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking his seventh solo entry on the chart. This achievement ties him with fellow BTS member Jungkook for the most solo songs by a K-pop artist on the Hot 100.
On the global stage, “Mona Lisa” reached No. 9 on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart, marking J-Hope’s first solo top 10 on this ranking. The song also debuted at No. 14 on the Billboard Global 200, his highest position on this chart to date.
Both singles have not only performed well on U.S. charts but have also made significant impacts internationally. “Sweet Dreams” topped iTunes charts in over 79 countries, including the U.S., U.K., Japan, France, Canada, Australia, and Brazil, demonstrating J-Hope’s global appeal.
In the Philippines, “Mona Lisa” has spent multiple weeks on the Billboard Philippines Hot 100, reflecting its popularity in the region.
In his Billboard interview, J-Hope emphasized the importance of authenticity in his music, stating, “I want to keep creating authentic performances that unite everyone through the power of music.” This commitment to genuine expression continues to resonate with his global fanbase, known as ARMY.
