ATEEZ is facing controversy after making history as the first fourth-generation K-pop boy group outside the “Big 4” to debut on the Billboard Hot 100.
Their title track, “Lemon Drop,” from the album GOLDEN HOUR : Part 3, entered the chart at #69. This milestone shocked many fans worldwide.
Soon after, some international fans raised doubts online. They pointed out ATEEZ’s absence from major global streaming platforms’ charts like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
Twitter user Car shared:
Global Spotify: OUT (no entry)
US Spotify: OUT (no entry)
Apple Music: OUT (no entry)
Apple Music US: OUT (no entry)
Amazon music: OUT (no entry)
US iTunes: OUT (peak #36)
Billboard global 200: OUT (no entry)
Billboard hot 100: #69 ???
Others called the achievement fraudulent, alleging KQ Entertainment priced physical copies just $1 above Billboard’s minimum to let fans bulk-buy and inflate sales.
Bia tweeted:
the fraudulence needs to end [pic]
Yezz added:
No global Spotify, no US Spotify no Apple Music Us, no Amazon music just pure fraudulence
Fans came to ATEEZ’s defense. They stressed the group’s success came from strong sales and a dedicated fanbase, not manipulation. They also pointed out ATEEZ’s rise without support from a major label.
Pink ☆ said:
every single bitter bitch in the qrts is mad because ateez is a group who didnt need the help of a big company and did this all on their own. "they’re frauds" no babe this is what organic growth looks like after almost 7 years of hard work, y’all are just used to privilege.
M☆ri added:
freshly debuted kpop groups from big 4 companies can debut and have songs chart immediately but it’s all of a sudden fraudulent when it’s ateez who has been in the game for 7 years
The debate is still gaining traction online as ATEEZ’s Billboard Hot 100 debut remains both historic and highly contested.
