KATSEYE

KATSEYE is a six-member American girl group formed under Geffen Records, created through the collaborative efforts of HYBE and Geffen Records for the survival show “The Debut: Dream Academy.” The group consists of Manon Bannerman, Sophia Laforteza, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeong. They officially released their pre-debut single “Debut” on June 28, 2024, and are set to make their official debut with their first extended play (EP), “SIS (Soft Is Strong),” on August 16, 2024.

The journey of KATSEYE began in November 2021 when HYBE Corporation and Geffen Records announced their joint venture to create a girl group with contestants from around the world. Auditions were held across South Korea, the United States, Japan, and the United Kingdom in 2022, aiming to form a group that would transcend national, cultural, and artistic boundaries. HYBE founder Bang Si-hyuk expressed his intention to promote the resultant group to the American market, highlighting the ambition behind the project.

From over 120,000 applicants, twenty contestants were selected to compete in the reality show “Dream Academy,” which premiered on August 19, 2023. The contestants underwent a year of training in Los Angeles, California, using methods prevalent in the Korean idol trainee system. The competition concluded on November 18, 2023, with Sophia, Lara, Yoonchae, Megan, Daniela, and Manon being selected to form KATSEYE. The group’s formation and their preparations for their debut EP were serialized in the documentary “Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE,” directed by Nadia Hallgreen and distributed by Netflix in the summer of 2024.

KATSEYE’s debut single “Debut,” released on June 28, 2024, is a pop track that explores themes of confidence and sisterhood, reflecting the bond among the members. The music video for the single, filmed in Medellín, Colombia, and directed by Gregory Ohrel, garnered 2.33 million views within three days. While it underperformed compared to similar releases by Korean acts, it set the stage for their upcoming EP. The second single, “Touch,” followed on July 26, further building anticipation for their official debut.

The group’s EP, “SIS (Soft Is Strong),” showcases collaborations with notable songwriters and producers, including Ryan Tedder and Omer Fedi. This project emphasizes KATSEYE’s unique position as an American girl group trained in the rigorous choreography and performance style typical of K-pop, while making American pop music. The diversity within the group is another distinguishing feature, with members representing various ethnic backgrounds. Manon Bannerman, Lara Raj, Sophia Laforteza, and Daniela Avanzini are noted as the first Black, Indian, Filipino, and Latina artists respectively to be signed under HYBE.

Ahead of their official debut, KATSEYE has already gained attention in the music industry. Teen Vogue listed them as one of twelve “Girl Groups to Watch in 2024,” highlighting their potential to make a significant impact. The group’s public image is further reinforced by their presence in interviews and media, where they express their commitment to delivering exceptional performances and connecting with a global audience.

KATSEYE’s debut marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between HYBE and Geffen Records, aiming to bridge the cultural gap between K-pop and American pop music. With their diverse lineup, rigorous training, and strategic promotions, KATSEYE is poised to become a notable presence in the global music scene.