The group BTS continues its unrivaled "long reign" in the global music market. The city council of Argentina unanimously selected them as "honorary guests."
According to Spotify's latest charts (tracking period: June 26–July 2), BTS's fifth full-length album "ARIRANG" held steady at No. 2 on the Weekly Top Albums Global chart for three consecutive weeks despite fierce comeback pushes by major pop stars. It has been firmly in the upper ranks for an astonishing 15 consecutive weeks. They have reached No. 1 nine times on that chart this year alone, holding the record for most No. 1s in 2026, and they continue to show unwaning momentum even three months after release.
The title track "SWIM" landed at No. 6 on the Weekly Top Songs Global chart, and five new album tracks — "Body to Body," "Hooligan," "2.0," "they don't know 'bout us'" and the title track — made a historic run by charting for 15 consecutive weeks. In addition, the surprise released single "Come Over" released last month joined at No. 85, continuing their chart domination.
The U.K. and the European continent were also colored by BTS. "ARIRANG," which entered the U.K. Official Albums Top 100 at No. 37 for 15 consecutive weeks (chart week July 3–9), saw its rankings significantly rise on subcharts such as the Official Scottish Albums (No. 14) and Official Album Sales (No. 20), showing a reverse-climbing momentum. It also landed at No. 9 on Germany's official music chart (July 3), holding a top-10 spot for 15 consecutive weeks and proving its unrivaled popularity in Europe.
BTS was also honored with unanimous selection as "honorary guests" (Huésped de Honor) by the La Plata city council in Argentina. This is the highest level of official courtesy bestowed on world-renowned cultural and artistic figures and recognizes their contributions to promoting youth rights worldwide.
Local media Infocielo praised the city council's unusual unanimous vote, highlighting the group's influence. In particular, La Plata Mayor Julio Alak is reportedly leading full administrative support from the city in security, traffic and lodging to prepare for the large crowds expected from BTS's visit.
BTS is scheduled to passionately connect with South American fans with performances in Buenos Aires at Estadio Único de La Plata on Oct. 21 and Oct. 23–24, becoming the first Korean artist to hold a three-day run at the stadium.
[Photo] Big Hit Music (HYBE)
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