BTS V's ‘Winter Ahead’ jumps 87 spots on Spotify as fans call him ‘Mariah Carey of Korea’

BTS’ Taehyung climbs 87 spots on Global Spotify Chart with ‘Winter Ahead’ as fans hail him the ‘Mariah Carey of Korea’

BTS member Kim Taehyung, also known as V, saw his track ‘Winter Ahead’ make a major leap on the Global Spotify Chart, rising 87 places to reach No. 104, making it the biggest gainer of the week. The song, released in November 2024, has resurfaced as fans embrace it once again ahead of the festive season.

The surge prompted widespread reactions from fans, who shared their excitement across social media. One fan wrote, “For those who don’t know, he’s like the Mariah Carey of Korea always releasing Christmas songs. He even has a collab with Bing Crosby. Get ready, this Christmas won’t be any different.”

Others highlighted the song’s nostalgic charm and enduring appeal. “An 87 spot jump... that's not just algorithm noise. That's pure word-of-mouth,” one fan commented. Another added, “The most beautiful jazz song, his voice is amazing, I listen to it every day.”

‘Winter Ahead’, described by listeners as a “soft snowfall on a quiet night,” continues to find new audiences, with many calling it an essential addition to seasonal playlists. Fans have affectionately dubbed Taehyung the “Winter Prince,” celebrating his smooth jazz-inspired vocals and emotional delivery.

Meanwhile, Taehyung’s global popularity extends beyond music. His latest campaign with Korean beauty brand TIRTIR has taken over digital billboards in New York’s Times Square, Los Angeles, and London’s Piccadilly Circus. As the brand’s first global ambassador since October, he will attend a TIRTIR pop-up event in Los Angeles from November 15, featuring exclusive products and interactive fan experiences.

Taehyung’s dual success in music and fashion underscores his continued global influence as one of K-pop’s most recognisable figures.