BLACKPINK’s Rosé is starting the new year strong as her solo track "APT." continues to dominate music charts worldwide!

On January 19th, Rosé’s agency, The Black Label, confirmed that her pre-release single "APT." has held the impressive No. 2 spot on the UK Official Singles Chart Top 100 for three weeks in a row.

This is a huge achievement, as the UK Official Chart is one of the biggest music charts globally, along with the U.S. Billboard charts.

"Apt." was released on October 18th, 2024, and quickly became a global hit. The song, which later featured pop sensation Bruno Mars in a special duet version, not only conquered domestic charts in Korea but also took over international music platforms.

It even achieved a "PAK" (Perfect All Kill) in South Korea, sweeping all major local music sites like Melon, Genie, and Vibe. It also topped iTunes charts in 40 countries, hit No. 1 on the U.S. Spotify chart, and claimed the top spot on QQ Music, the largest music platform in China.

Despite the holiday season's Christmas carols taking over global charts, "APT." showed a "reverse surge" in 2025, proving that its popularity is unstoppable.

The song even reached a career-high No. 5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, while holding its spot at No. 2 on the UK chart for three consecutive weeks! Fans all around the world are loving Rosé's music more than ever.

Rosé’s full album Rosie, which includes "APT.," has also made waves. Not only did it debut at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, but it also marked a big milestone as Rosé took part in writing and composing every track on the album, setting a new record for female K-pop artists.

With the success of "APT." and her album, Rosé is expected to keep captivating fans worldwide with more exciting music activities in 2025!

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

Source: [1]