[OSENWORLD] MONSTA X have long proven their strength on the Billboard charts with English-language releases, but this time the breakthrough comes with a Korean-language release.

Back in 2020, the group’s first U.S. full-length album All About Luv debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200, followed by The Dreaming, which spent two weeks on the chart. These milestones cemented their presence in the global market.

As they celebrate their 10th anniversary, MONSTA X have entered the Billboard 200 for the first time with a Korean release. Their new mini album THE X, dropped on Sept. 1, debuted at No. 31 on the Sept. 20 chart, marking a historic first in their career.

The record also made waves across Billboard’s sub-charts, placing No. 3 on World Albums, No. 5 on Independent Albums, No. 6 on both Top Album Sales and Top Current Album Sales, and No. 25 on the Artist 100. In total, THE X appeared on six Billboard charts in its debut week.

Symbolically, the project reflects both a decade of history and a fresh start. The title THE X stands for “the one unknown variable,” while also referencing the Roman numeral ten — commemorating their 10th anniversary. Just as importantly, it heralds the long-awaited return of all six members, underscoring the album’s significance for fans.

International media have taken notice. Rolling Stone praised the group’s artistic growth, pointing out their involvement in writing, composing, arranging, and track selection. Forbes highlighted MONSTA X’s “pioneering spirit,” noting their wide-ranging discography across Korean, Japanese, and English, and hailed them as icons of the Korean music scene.

With THE X, MONSTA X have broken through on the Billboard 200 not through English releases, but with Korean music — proving once again that their global reach knows no boundaries.

/k_inside@osen.co.kr

Courtesy of Starship Entertainment