BTS’ V, also known as Kim Taehyung, has achieved an extraordinary milestone with his digital single FRI(END)S, becoming the first and only K-pop soloist to surpass 300 million streams on Spotify in 2024.

On August 14, 2024, BTS’ V made headlines when his English single FRI(END)S crossed the 300 million streams mark on Spotify. This achievement sets a new record as the first and only track by a K-pop solo artist to reach this milestone in 2024. The song, which was released on March 15, 2024, quickly gained popularity and secured its place in the global music scene.

FRI(END)S’ Impressive Debut and Chart Performance

Upon its release, FRI(END)S debuted at No. 7 on Spotify’s Daily Global Top Songs chart, amassing an impressive 4,728,233 plays on its first day. The song’s success extended beyond Spotify, as it reached No. 65 on the Billboard Hot 100 on March 26, 2024, and climbed to No. 2 on Billboard’s Digital Single Sales chart, making it the second-best-selling single of the week in the United States. Additionally, FRI(END)S debuted at No. 5 on the Global 200 and No. 3 on Billboard’s Global Excl. U.S. chart.

The track, known for its emotional lyrics and soothing melody, delves into the longing to deepen a meaningful relationship. With its relaxed beat and pop-soul R&B essence, FRI(END)S quickly resonated with listeners worldwide. The music video, directed by the acclaimed British photographer and filmmaker Samuel Bradley, features British actress Ruby Sear as V’s love interest, adding a layer of intrigue to the song’s narrative.

“FRI(END)S explores the desire to transform a friendship into something more meaningful,” the description reads. “With its soothing melody and emotional depth, the track captures the essence of pop-soul R&B.”

V’s Unstoppable Success with FRI(END)S

On March 15, 2024, at 1 PM KST, V released FRI(END)S, which immediately soared to the top of iTunes charts worldwide. This release marked V’s highest solo ranking to date, surpassing the No. 10 position set by his 2023 pre-release single Love Me Again. Additionally, FRI(END)S achieved the highest first-day streams of any K-pop song released in 2024. The track also made significant waves in Japan, climbing to No. 2 on Oricon’s daily digital singles chart, with the instrumental version following at No. 4. The Slowed Down version debuted at No. 7, and the Sped Up version came in at No. 8.

The music video for FRI(END)S quickly became a global sensation, reaching No. 1 on YouTube’s Global Top Music Videos chart shortly after its release. Directed by Samuel Bradley, the video masterfully blends emotion and storytelling, further cementing V’s status as a global music icon.

“FRI(END)S reached No. 65 on the Hot 100 on March 26, 2024, and climbed to No. 2 on Billboard’s Digital Single Sales chart, marking it as the second-best-selling single of the week in the U.S.”

V’s Continued Success and Recent Collaborations

FRI(END)S follows the release of wherever u r and Love wins all, showcasing V’s versatility as an artist. He was featured on the R&B track wherever u r by American singer UMI, which was released on December 30, 2023. Additionally, V played the lead role in IU’s Love wins all, released on January 24, 2024.

As of August 14, 2024, FRI(END)S continues to perform exceptionally well on the iTunes chart, solidifying V’s position as a leading figure in the global music industry.

Watch the track here.

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