Here’s Why Forbes Ranked Stray Kids As the No.1 K-Pop Group of 2025: Achievements, Impact and Top Songs
- Disha Paul
- Dec 12, 2025
- 3 min read
Stray Kids have completely dominated 2025, breaking music records, selling out global stadiums, and setting new standards for fourth-gen K-pop. And now, Forbes has officially crowned them the No.1 K-Pop Group of 2025, marking one of the biggest career milestones the group and the fandom have ever celebrated.
For STAYs, this recognition feels deserved and long overdue. For new listeners, it’s the perfect time to understand why Stray Kids are leading the industry.
In this article, we dive into Forbes’ ranking, the achievements that earned them the top spot, their 2025 musical impact, and the essential tracks every fan should have on their playlist.
Why Forbes Ranked Stray Kids as the No.1 K-Pop Group of 2025
Forbes releases annual artist rankings based on global influence, commercial success, media presence, and long-term impact. In 2025, Stray Kids secured the highest position among all K-pop groups.
This decision wasn’t based on hype alone. Forbes evaluated streaming performance, chart placements, digital sales, touring numbers, fan engagement, international media coverage, and year-long consistency.
The ranking matters because Forbes is known for data-driven insights rather than trend-based opinions.
Their recognition essentially confirms Stray Kids’ position as the most influential K-pop group of the year, solidifying the group’s status in the global entertainment market.
How Touring, Fandom Power, and Global Reach Influenced Their Ranking
Stray Kids’ 2025 world tour played a major role in reinforcing their dominance. Not only did they sell out stadiums across continents, but they also expanded into larger venues that other fourth-generation groups have struggled to fill.
Their concerts generated high revenue, extensive media coverage, and viral social media moments.
Supporting them throughout this journey was STAY — one of the most dedicated fandoms in the industry.
Preorders, digital sales, streaming boosts, and social campaigns all contributed to the group’s overall visibility and success.
Forbes and other outlets highlighted how the synergy between Stray Kids’ artistry and STAY’s support created a powerful global movement, strengthening their No.1 position.
Top Stray Kids Songs Every STAY Should Have on Their Playlist (2025 Edition)
A short, ready-to-use playlist for Reels, Shorts, or Spotify:
1. "Chk Chk Boom"
A stadium-ready anthem with explosive energy — classic Stray Kids intensity.
2. "DO IT"
A 2025 release that added momentum to their Billboard successes and showcased their evolving musical direction.
3. "CEREMONY"
Featured on multiple year-end lists and praised as one of 2025’s standout K-pop tracks.
4. "Hellevator"
A legendary pre-debut classic — the track that many STAYs believe announced the group’s destiny.
5. Deep-cut essentials:
"In My Head"
"Victory Song"
"Grow Up"
These tracks show off the group’s range, personality, and emotional depth.
What Stray Kids’ Forbes Win Means for K-Pop in 2026
Stray Kids becoming Forbes’ No.1 K-pop group of 2025 signals a shift in trends. Their rise proves that self-producing groups with strong creative control can dominate international markets.
In 2026, other K-pop groups may follow similar strategies: bold production, grounded storytelling, bigger global tours, and a focus on artistic individuality.
Final Thoughts
For longtime STAYs, 2025 has felt like a victory lap, proof that years of support, streaming, and loud cheering paid off. For new listeners, this is the perfect moment to explore Stray Kids’ music and discover why they’ve become one of the biggest forces in K-pop.
Forbes crowning them No.1 is huge, but the real story lies in the music, the journey, and the fans who helped shape it all.
Your turn, which Stray Kids songs would you add to the ultimate playlist? Comment your top three choices, and we’ll create a shareable playlist based on the most-voted tracks!
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