Stray Kids continue their meteoric rise on the global stage, this time setting records in France.
According to newly released data from Billboard France, powered by music analytics firm Luminate, Stray Kids have officially become the “Most Streamed K-pop Group in France” for 2025—surpassing legendary acts such as BTS and BLACKPINK.
This achievement not only underlines Stray Kids’ increasing global reach but also marks a significant milestone in the evolution of K-pop’s presence in Europe, where the French market has been a crucial yet competitive battleground for international artists.
Streaming Success in 2025
The announcement, made by Billboard France, is based on comprehensive streaming analytics from Luminate, the same company behind Billboard’s U.S. charts.
While exact streaming figures weren’t disclosed in the article, Stray Kids clinching the No.1 spot among K-pop acts highlights their widespread popularity and loyal listener base in France.
Their music, which fuses aggressive hip-hop, EDM, and alternative elements with self-written lyrics, appears to resonate strongly with French audiences, particularly Gen Z and millennial listeners.
This result is particularly notable considering the tough competition in the K-pop genre.
BTS and BLACKPINK, both longstanding titans of the global K-pop wave, have had consistently strong French fanbases.
For Stray Kids to overtake them signals a clear shift in the regional dynamics of fan engagement and consumption.
Dominating French Stages
Stray Kids’ digital success in France is closely linked to their record-breaking live performances in the country.
Most notably, the group held two sold-out concerts at the Stade de France, one of the largest stadiums in Europe, as part of their ‘Dominate’ world tour in 2025.
Over the span of two nights, they drew an astounding 120,000 fans—60,000 per show.
This not only set the record for the largest K-pop concert ever held in France, but also marked the highest attendance for a Korean artist at that particular venue.
The Stade de France shows were a cultural phenomenon. Fans from across Europe flocked to Paris for the event, and French media widely covered the concerts, recognizing Stray Kids as the new face of K-pop’s global expansion.
From elaborate stage design to powerhouse performances and multilingual fan interactions, the group left an indelible impression on both fans and industry watchers.
Building a Legacy in France
Stray Kids’ success in France hasn’t been a sudden surge—it’s the result of consistent effort and strategic appearances.
Their first major breakthrough in the country came in July 2023 when they headlined Lollapalooza Paris, drawing a crowd of 60,000.
The performance was praised for its energy and charisma, further bolstering their reputation as festival headliners.
They also made headlines in January 2024 when they were invited to perform at the ‘Opération Pièces Jaunes (Operation Yellow Coin)’ charity concert—becoming the first K-pop boy group to be featured at the long-standing philanthropic event.
Their inclusion symbolized not only their rising popularity but also the growing cultural recognition of K-pop in French society.
Chart-Topping Albums and Sales
In addition to concerts and streaming milestones, Stray Kids have also made a significant impact on France’s album sales charts.
Their third full-length album, ‘5-Star,’ ranked 52nd on the French Recording Industry Association’s Top 200 Albums of 2023, an impressive feat for a non-French, non-English album.
Moreover, their mini-album ‘Rock-Star’ landed at 135th on the same chart.
These two releases were the top-selling K-pop albums in France for 2023, signaling that French fans aren’t just streaming—they’re also investing in physical and digital purchases.
Such achievements are particularly remarkable in France, where physical album sales and artistic reputation still hold considerable weight.
Stray Kids’ chart performance proves they’ve transcended the digital trend to become true artists with marketable influence.
Looking Ahead: Comeback with ‘KARMA’
As the group rides high on its 2025 achievements, fans won’t have to wait long for new music. Stray Kids are scheduled to release their 4th full-length album, titled ‘KARMA,’ on August 22, 2025.
With heightened anticipation from both domestic and international fans, especially in France, the album is expected to perform strongly across streaming platforms and physical sales charts alike.
Given their track record of conceptual storytelling, genre experimentation, and high-impact visuals, ‘KARMA’ is expected to further cement their status as global music leaders.
Teasers for the release, including a “0801” street version video celebrating the 7th anniversary of their fandom STAY, have already generated considerable buzz online.
Stray Kids’ rise to the top of the streaming charts in France reflects more than just numbers—it’s a testament to the group’s relentless work ethic, artistry, and global strategy.
With a history of record-breaking performances, cultural milestones, and an ever-growing discography, they’re not just participating in the global K-pop movement—they’re leading it.
As they prepare for their next chapter with ‘KARMA,’ Stray Kids stand poised to not only maintain their reign in France but expand their influence even further across Europe and beyond.
