From viral livestreams to iconic fashion moments, HYBE’s newest girl group is redefining what it means to go global. With their bold choreography, multilingual songs, and viral energy, KATSEYE is taking the global pop scene by storm. Formed under HYBE and Geffen Records, the six-member group has drawn fans from every corner of the internet, not just for their music, but for their authenticity and charm.
“I’m really into K-pop, so when HYBE, the label behind BTS, announced they were launching a global girl group, I had to check it out,” Kenia Aquino (12) said. “Even if I didn’t watch the show, I followed the results online and supported girls like Sofia and Manon from the start.”
That mix of curiosity and casual connection seems to define KATSEYE’s growing fandom. Many fans, like Aquino, discovered the group through social media clips or viral livestreams rather than traditional promotion. Their easygoing energy and familiarity with online culture make them feel approachable, especially for younger audiences.
“They’re really relatable,” Aquino said. “When you see their lives or TikToks, they’re just being themselves; caught up on memes and trends. It makes you feel like, ‘Wait, they’re just like me.’”
KATSEYE also captures the essence of what makes K-pop groups so captivating: the sharp choreography, cohesive styling, and polished group dynamic that define the genre’s global appeal. Their performances showcase the same level of precision and artistry that draws fans to K-pop, blending music, visuals, and storytelling into a seamless experience. From their stage presence to their group chemistry, KATSEYE reflects the same energy and dedication that have made K-pop an international phenomenon.
“They have the same vibes as K-pop groups,” Diana Fabian (12) said. “It’s kind of [similar]to K-pop because they kind of formed a similar way most K-pop groups would form.The best part is the choreography- it grabs your attention- the videos everything just grabs you.”
For others, the appeal goes beyond their personalities, musical skills and performances. The group’s diverse backgrounds and English-language songs have helped bridge the gap between non-K-pop enthusiasts and K-pop audiences.
“They remind me of K-pop groups, but it’s easier to connect with them because they mostly sing in English,” Fabian said. “You don’t need subtitles to enjoy their content. It’s more accessible, and their diversity really shows. But, I remember -in a documentary for KATSEYE- a lot of the countries would support the girls that were from their country.”
KATSEYE’s rise has also been fueled by moments that blend music, fashion, and pop culture. Their Gap commercial earlier this year, set to “Milkshake”, became an instant online hit, even overshadowing other celebrity campaigns. The commercial’s interesting timing put KATSEYE into the eyes of millions as an iconic talented group of singers.
“That Gap commercial was so iconic. It definitely amplified the love and attention [for the group],” Fabian said. “I never skip it when it comes up. Sophia’s skirt even sold out the day it dropped!”
Still, what keeps fans talking isn’t just the aesthetics but the artistry. Whether it’s their sharp stage presence, catchy hooks, or live performances that silence lip-syncing rumors, KATSEYE continues to prove that their global success isn’t accidental but well earned
“They’re so talented and fun to watch,” Aquino said. “Even if I don’t listen to every song, I love seeing them perform. You can tell everyone’s giving their all.”
From chart-topping singles like Gnarly and Touch to their viral livestreams, KATSEYE represents a new generation of pop: one that’s inclusive, internet-savvy, and impossible to ignore.
“Even though I don’t listen to them all the time, I think they’re still really catchy. And I really like watching their performances,” Aquino said. “It’s just really entertaining to watch a girl group be big these days, filled with so many different parts of the world and represent everybody.”
