IU Named Korea's Representative Artist by Billboard

Billboard recently announced its "Global No. 1 Artist Series," selecting IU as Korea's representative. The publication praised her as an "irreplaceable artist."

Billboard highlighted, "Many excel in fields like idol music, acting, variety shows, and entertainment, but IU is the only one to succeed across all these areas simultaneously."

The selection underscores why IU is seen as Korea's representative. "IU enjoys absolute love from both K-pop and Korean music fans, appealing to all generations from the young to the elderly," it stated.

The recognition also emphasized IU's "musical achievements and the distinct impact of her performances," reaffirming her status as a globally beloved artist.

IU's remarkable achievements in 2024 were analyzed by Billboard, which described her "overwhelming dominance on the charts." Her hit song "Love Wins All" topped the Melon Top 100 just an hour after its release.

The song went on to claim #1 on the weekly chart for four consecutive weeks and #1 on the February monthly chart, achieving an incredible 339 Perfect All-Kills on iChart.

IU's world tour was also a major milestone. Billboard noted, "IU performed 31 concerts across 12 countries, drawing around 500,000 attendees, marking the largest world tour by a Korean female solo artist."

Furthermore, IU earned the title of "the first female artist to perform at Seoul World Cup Stadium" and "the first to perform at all major stadiums in Korea."

Reflecting on being named Billboard's "No. 1 Artist," IU shared her gratitude: "Global, Billboard, No. 1—these words feel unfamiliar, but they fill me with honor and joy."

Looking ahead, IU is preparing for the release of the Netflix series "When Life Gives You Tangerines" and is simultaneously filming MBC's new drama "21st Century Crown Princess" (working title) while continuing her music projects.