ATEEZ Hits Billboard #1: Let's Look Back at the Group's Journey

ATEEZ, fueled by their fanbase, ATINY's, passionate support and their own dedication and talent, recently earned their first #1 on the Billboard 200 chart. This brought joy and pride to its fandom and members.
 

ATEEZ is an eight-member powerhouse K-Pop group known for their energetic performance. Championing teamwork, Captain Hongjoong leads his members Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Wooyoung, and Jongho. 

Since their 2018 debut, the group has stormed the scene and has captivated their audiences with their moves, stage presence, and series of themed records.

With every release, their devoted fanbase, ATINY, has grown and helped propel ATEEZ to rise on Korean charts by dominating music broadcasts and shining through at award shows. 

This unwavering support, along with the group's dedication to artistic growth and evolution, recently saw a monumental achievement: the boys claimed the #1 spot on the Billboard 200 chart with their album "THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL."

This feat stands as a testament to their journey, the power of resilience, talent, passion, and a dedicated fandom.

October 24, 2018 marked ATEEZ’s debut with "Treasure EP.1: All to ZERO'' and the beginning of their "Treasure" era. The album, riddled with themes of youthful rebellion and adventure, paved the genesis of their signature lore and pirate themes.
 

ATEEZ recently detailed the challenges and discrimination they faced coming from a smaller company– from cut debut stages to experiencing general disregard by the industry. But through their hardships, this era saw iconic tracks like the electronic "Hala Hala", powerful "Say My Name", calming “Wave” and heartfelt “Answer.” It also led the group to a couple of firsts: a full album release, "Treasure EP.Fin: All to Action", and a world tour.

Their releases became instant favorites, which propelled them to their victories. The “Treasure” era helped the group make a name for themselves in both local and international music scenes.

ATEEZ ushered in their introspective "ZERO: Fever" era with "ZERO: Fever Part.1" released on July 29, 2020. This era’s tracks like the spirited "Fireworks (I'm the One)", suave “Deja Vu”, and the modern/traditional fusion track “멋(The Real) (흥 : 興 Ver.)” showcased their musical and thematic range and emotional depth.

The “ZERO: Fever” era was also etched with adversity. The global pandemic caused merciless calamity worldwide and forced the cancellation of their tour. Additionally, the members navigated a grueling competition show and faced intense hate online.

These trials could have deterred their momentum, but they remained steadfast and determined. As a result, ATEEZ continues to defy expectations and blossom. They turned their hardships into meticulously crafted EPs, like diamonds forged under pressure.

Together they experienced their first wins on the iconic Immortal Songs show, and members branched out individually by filming a K-Drama, becoming a music show MC, and collaborating with domestic and international artists. The “ZERO: Fever” era declared ATEEZ ascent imminent, even in the most turbulent of times.

"The World EP.1: Movement," released July 29, 2022, marked the start of their dynamic third era.

The lead single, "Guerrilla," challenged K-pop conventions with its bold sound, yet had a complete winning streak on top Korean music shows. 

It also led the group to their second world tour, "THE FELLOWSHIP: BREAK THE WALL. "The World EP.2: Outlaw," released June 16, 2023, took the industry by storm as everyone tried their hand at the infectious "Bouncy" choreography and saw the conclusion of their four-continent stadium and arena world tour. 

The first and second "World" era albums reached #3 and #2 on the Billboard 200, paving the way for the triumphant "THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL."

"THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL" ("WILL") marked ATEEZ’s second full album and a bold leap into collective songwriting and subunit tracks. It allowed them to showcase their artistic growth and individual talents like never before.

At the end of its release week, the third album hit the #1 spot on the Billboard 200 chart, marking them as the first K-pop group outside the Big 4 companies and only the seventh overall to reach this milestone.

Their hard work, musical expression, and dedicated ATINY propelled “WILL” to these amazing heights and reinforced ATEEZ's status as a musical powerhouse.

ATEEZ debuted the electrifying, genre-bending title track "미친 폼 (Crazy Form)" with a cinematic opening performance at the 2023 MAMA Awards. It soared with rave reactions and record-breaking views. 

The 12-track record further expands their musical palette, from the futuristic "We Know" and hyped hip-hop track "Emergency" to the ethereal synth-pop of "Silver Light," the Latin-trap fusion of "ARRIBA," and soulful ballads like “Everything.”
 

It also includes lo-fi odes to friendship ("Youth"), mature, upbeat R&B tracks ("It's You"), powerful rap statements ("MATZ"), and finally, culminates with a "FIN.WILL," a classic rock production to bid their "WORLD” era adieu.

Reaching the summit of the Billboard 200 wasn't just a feat for ATEEZ. It was a triumphant roar for the K-pop community and creatives worldwide.
 

As the first group outside the Big 4 companies and only the seventh overall to conquer this peak, ATEEZ shattered barriers and proved that talent and dedication can help one rise above their roots. 

This monumental achievement, especially during the holiday season when international powerhouses dominate the charts, is a testament to the group’s enduring drive and artistic freedom. Without question, these helped skyrocket to their highest-charting release yet.

And true enough, the world took notice of ATEEZ’s victory. Top Korean news stations like Arirang, KBS, MBC, and SBS covered their triumph. International publications like Vogue, GQ, Forbes, Variety, and even Rolling Stone UK, joined in on the praise. 
 

"WILL" didn’t only top on Billboard, a U.S based chart, but also peaked tremendously on charts worldwide. Their #2 debut in the UK saw them become only the third K-Pop act after BTS and Blackpink to reach the coveted top 3 ranking. 

Critics, casual listeners, and the most ardent fans unanimously agree: "THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL" is ATEEZ's greatest sonic, commercial, and critical masterpiece. 

This global recognition is the culmination of their zealous talent, relentless growth, and an inspirational journey that's just beginning. Their commitment, spirit, and defiance of established norms have cemented them as a force to be reckoned with, leaving every ATINY worldwide swelling with pride. 

ATEEZ's ascent to Billboard #1 isn't just an award, it's a beacon urging everyone to reach for their own moon. So, dream big, chase the impossible, and leave your own trail of inspiration. 

While ATEEZ have reached amazing heights, bigger and better things are in store for the group and ATINY. 

Feel free to check out ATEEZ' official merch from the Daebak Company.