'Karma': Stray Kids has historic Billboard run; awarded gold plaques worth 102 million

Stray Kids marked a historic run as 'Karma' opened at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 on Sept. 6, becoming the first act to debut seven consecutive albums atop the chart in its 70-year history, according to JoongAng Daily.The album is still charting high, sitting at No. 8 on the Billboard 200 dated Sept. 20, logging a third straight week in the top tier per the same report. JYP founder and chief producer Park Jin-young honoured the milestone by presenting eight gold-framed plaques, with each member receiving 20 don (75g) of gold for a total of 160 don, valued at roughly KRW 102 million, about INR 5,900,000 at press time.The group posted six photos and a video on Instagram, celebrating with the plaques and a cake, capturing the moment of the label head's gesture and the band's achievement. Aditional shows on Oct. 18-19 at Incheon Asiad Main Stadium sold out immediately, as confirmed by JYP, underscoring demand while the group approaches the finale of its largest world tour.The 'dominATE' itinerary spans 54 shows across 34 cities worldwide, positioning the stadium doubleheader as a grand capstone. Park Jin-young was recently named co-chair of a new presidential commission for international pop culture exchange, working with Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young on strategies for expanding Korea's music, drama, film, and gaming globally.The appointment aligns with Stray Kids' momentum, bridging institutional support and pop performance as the group's global footprint grows.