In a recent interview, HYBE‘s Chairman Bang Si-hyuk, known as Ban PD, sparked debate within the K-pop community after emphasizing the importance of collaboration in K-pop’s global success. While referencing Jungkook’s smash hit “Seven” featuring Latto—a song inspired by the British garage genre—fans couldn’t help but notice a glaring omission: recognition of Jimin’s groundbreaking solo achievements.
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Jimin’s Historic Billboard Milestone
Jimin’s “Like Crazy” made history earlier this year, earning him the distinction of being the first Korean solo artist to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Despite this monumental achievement, fans feel the acknowledgment from HYBE has been lackluster compared to the spotlight shone on collaborative projects like “Seven.”
While Jungkook and Latto’s collaboration has been celebrated across multiple platforms and hailed as a model for global collaboration, Jimin’s solo success seemed to garner relatively muted recognition—a tweet and a short Weverse article being the most visible gestures. This disparity has left many fans frustrated, viewing it as a failure to appropriately highlight Jimin’s unparalleled accomplishment.
Jimin’s Independence and Star Power
What makes Jimin’s success even more impressive is the fact that he achieved it without the aid of high-profile collaborations. Unlike many artists who rely on featuring big-name global acts to boost their reach, Jimin’s artistry and charisma have proven powerful enough to capture audiences worldwide on their own.
As one fan succinctly put it, “Park Jimin doesn’t need collaborations. It’s the collaborations that need Park Jimin.” This sentiment underscores the unique position Jimin occupies within the music industry—his ability to dominate charts and command attention as a solo artist is a testament to his talent and hard work.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
Fans have been vocal about their discontent with the perceived sidelining of Jimin’s achievements. Many continue to celebrate his success independently, expressing unwavering support for his solo career and pushing back against narratives that downplay his contributions.
Looking Ahead
As the K-pop industry grows increasingly global, the focus on collaborations will likely persist. However, Jimin’s story serves as a reminder of the power of individuality in music. His success on the Billboard charts and beyond speaks volumes about his ability to shine without the crutch of external partnerships—a true reflection of his artistry and global appeal.
Park Jimin doesn’t just set records; he redefines them.
