Stray Kids Got That Good 'KARMA'

Photo Courtesy of [The Korea Times] www.koreatimes.co.kr

Stray Kids have returned with their 4th full studio album 'Karma,' which sold 2,080,072 copies on its first day of release, Friday, August 22, 2025, as reported by the Korean Hanteo chart.

Stray Kids leader Bang Chan revealed that the title track 'Ceremony' was inspired by "Bollywood" sounds. He shared this information during a discussion with Shownu from MONSTA X and Jungwoo from NCT 127 on episode 23 of 'Nopogy'.

'Karma' is an immensely strong album from the Octet, and hosts sounds of Trap, indie-pop and surprisingly UK-Garage.

Photos Courtesy of JYP Entertainment

'Ceremony' has a strong and addictive bass line, with the underlying sounds of a distorted Indian sitar and subtle strings. Cleverly done. The tones and melodies of the rap verses give a strong and commanding feel; juxtaposed with the vocal line, the song returns to a classic pop sound.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7vBoGWoReg

Another song I'd like to highlight is 'Ghost.' I'm very surprised to hear a UK Garage-esque song from Stray Kids. The vocals in the chorus are light and slightly stretched, giving that 2000s feel.

'Creed'

This song about strong beliefs has a dark, trap hip-hop beat and is one of the B-sides that I'm interested in seeing the music video for.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1aVdXvgXZs

'Creed' Music Video Teaser

It's no secret that I'm huge fan of Stray Kids, and having a comeback shortly after attending both days of the London leg of their DominATE stadium world tour, I have to say I feel well fed!

The DominATE world tour, grossed $185.9 million and sold 1.3 million tickets worldwide. Stray Kids don't seem to be slowing down any time soon.