BTS has returned to the top of a global chart more than seven years after the song's original release, proving their lasting influence.
According to Billboard's latest chart dated December 20, released on December 17, BTS's "Anpanman" re-entered at No. 1 on the World Digital Song Sales chart. The track was originally released in May 2018 as part of the group's third full-length album Love Yourself 轉 'Tear', making the achievement a remarkable comeback after 7 years and 7 months. The song also ranked No. 7 on the Digital Song Sales chart.
"Anpanman" has sparked a global reverse-charting trend, topping the iTunes Top Song chart in 75 countries and regions as of December 8, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy. The momentum extended to the UK Official Charts, where the track placed No. 12 on the Official Singles Download chart and No. 24 on the Official Singles Sales chart.
Industry observers note that the renewed popularity comes as BTS prepares for a full-group comeback next spring, interpreting the resurgence as a reflection of ARMY's collective support and anticipation.
Inspired by the hero who gives his own bread to the hungry, "Anpanman" portrays a hero without superpowers—one who stays close for the long run. The song encapsulates BTS's sincerity and message of hope, with lyrics emphasizing perseverance and trust, even after repeated falls.
The members are also continuing strong chart performances with their solo releases. Jung Kook's "Seven" and Jin's "Don't Say You Love Me" ranked No. 150 and No. 166, respectively, on the Billboard Global 200. On the Global Excl. U.S. chart, Jin's "Don't Say You Love Me," Jung Kook's "Seven," and Jimin's "Who" placed at No. 79, No. 81, and No. 137. BTS's anthology album Proof also ranked No. 9 on the World Albums chart.
Earlier this week, Billboard announced its list of the Top 10 Best-Selling K-pop Tours of 2025. J-Hope's first solo world tour ranked No. 3, while Jin's first solo fan concert tour placed No. 7. J-Hope recorded the highest rank among solo artists, performing 33 shows across Asia and North America and drawing more than 500,000 attendees. Jin attracted approximately 300,000 fans across 18 shows in Asia, North America, and Europe, excluding his late-October Incheon encore concerts.
In addition, Japan's Oricon Annual Ranking 2025 showed Jin's album Echo at No. 39 on the Album Ranking, marking the strongest result among Korean solo artists.
