BTS’s “Dynamite” became the group’s first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 and the first chart-topper by an all-South-Korean group. Released in 2020, it also became the first song by an all-South-Korean act to debut at No. 1.
The disco-pop single was BTS’s first song recorded entirely in English. Its upbeat arrangement, falsetto vocals, handclaps, and references to contemporary pop culture gave it a deliberately celebratory tone. The song was written by David Stewart and Jessica Agombar, who also produced it.
“Dynamite” arrived during the COVID-19 pandemic and was promoted as an encouraging, feel-good release. Its chart result reflected BTS’s established international fan base and the growing global reach of K-pop in the United States.
“Butter” and “Permission to Dance” later became additional BTS Hot 100 No. 1s. “Boy With Luv” was a major hit but did not top the chart. The group’s Korean-language catalog and their English-language singles are often discussed together, but “Dynamite” is the specific breakthrough associated with this Billboard milestone.