BTS Smash 3.98M Sales in a Day, Hit Million in 10 Minutes with "ARIRANG"

BTS proved their unmatched global impact, reaching 1 million sales in just 10 minutes with their first full-group comeback in 3 years and 9 months.

According to BIGHIT MUSIC, citing Hanteo Chart, BTS’ fifth full-length album "ARIRANG" recorded 3.98 million copies sold on its first day, March 20. The album surpassed 1 million sales within approximately 10 minutes of release, setting a new record for the fastest million-seller.

BTS. Photo by BIGHIT MUSIC.

This figure already exceeds BTS’ previous highest first-week sales record of 3.37 million copies set by "MAP OF THE SOUL : 7," achieved now in just a single day. With six days still remaining in the first-week tracking period, attention is focused on how far the record will extend.

Beyond album sales, BTS swept global charts. "ARIRANG" topped iTunes Top Albums in 88 regions including Italy, Mexico, and Sweden, while the title track "SWIM" ranked No.1 in 90 regions including the United States, Japan, and the United Kingdom as of 9 a.m. on March 21.

Domestically, "SWIM" held the No.1 spot on Melon, while "Body to Body" ranked No.2, with all tracks from the album entering the Top 100.

The "SWIM" music video also reached No.1 on YouTube Trending Music in 70 regions immediately after release, completing a sweep across album sales, streaming, and video platforms.

This all-around performance reflects explosive global demand for BTS’ return, driven by the synergy of all seven members and the album’s message of solidarity.

BTS will hold "BTS COMEBACK LIVE: ARIRANG" at 8 p.m. on March 21 at Gwanghwamun Square, unveiling their new stages for the first time.

Reported by News Culture [e-mail]