YENA Makes History with First Global Spotify Chart Entry on JIN’s “LOSER”

South Korean solo artist Choi Yena, known professionally as YENA, has achieved a significant milestone in her career, earning her first-ever entry on the Global Spotify Chart with the track “LOSER,” a collaboration with BTS member JIN. The song, part of JIN’s second solo EP Echo, debuted at #146 on the chart with an impressive 1,461,661 streams on May 17, 2025, marking a triumphant moment for both artists.

“LOSER,” the third track on Echo, is a dynamic blend of alternative rock and pop, featuring raw, introspective lyrics about self-doubt, resilience, and the complexities of relationships. The song captures the emotional push-and-pull of a couple caught between sweet moments and habitual bickering, brought to life by the fresh chemistry between JIN’s delicate vocal tone and YENA’s vibrant, energetic delivery. Critics and fans alike have praised the duet for its honesty and emotional depth, with many calling it a standout track on the album.

YENA, who first rose to prominence as a member of the project girl group IZ*ONE, has been carving out a distinct identity as a solo artist since her debut in 2022. Known for her bubbly charm and versatile performances, her collaboration with JIN has been hailed as a win-win partnership. Posts on X celebrated the milestone, with one user noting, “YENA will give him his first hit in SK while she will get her first Spotify global entry thru him.. WIN-WIN for both.”

For JIN, “LOSER” adds to the success of his solo endeavors following the release of his debut solo EP Happy in November 2024, which saw tracks like “Running Wild” and “I’ll Be There” climb the global charts. Echo, released on May 16, 2025, showcases JIN’s evolving artistry with seven tracks that explore universal themes of love, loss, and personal growth. The album’s teaser, which included snippets of “LOSER,” generated significant buzz for its rock-infused sound and YENA’s guest appearance.

The Global Spotify Chart entry is a testament to the growing influence of K-pop on the international stage, with South Korean artists like JIN and YENA continuing to captivate global audiences. As of May 2025, South Korea remains a powerhouse in the music industry, with artists from the country accounting for a significant portion of top performers, according to Chartmetric’s 2024 Year in Music report.

Fans have taken to social media to express their excitement, with hashtags like #Jin_Echo and #LOSER trending on social media. One fan wrote, “The chemistry between #Jin and YENA is unreal! ‘Loser’ is such a bop, and I’m so proud of YENA for her first global chart entry!”

As YENA celebrates this career-defining moment, “LOSER” is poised to climb higher on the charts, with its relatable message and infectious energy resonating with listeners worldwide. For JIN, the track further cements his status as a solo artist capable of delivering emotionally compelling music. With Echo continuing to gain traction, the collaboration between these two K-pop stars is a highlight of 2025’s music scene.