In a music world increasingly shaped by international collaboration, KATSEYE has emerged as one of the most intriguing experiments in modern pop. From years of rigorous training to multiple collaborations with A-list celebrities, the global girl group worked hard in a relentless Netflix competition series, “Popstar Academy”. The premise of the show was that the top contestants would become additions to the six-member ensemble exclusively.

The thought behind the creation of the girl group was a collaboration between HYBE Corporation of South Korea and Geffen Records in the United States. The final lineup consists of Manon Bannerman, Sophia Laforteza, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung. Each member represents different nationalities, reflecting the group’s international concept.  

The group’s debut single, “Debut”, was released in June 2024, introducing KATSEYE’s eccentric pop music and choreography-driven performances. Soon after “Touch”, a modernistic pop single released in July 2024, millions of views were amassed over multiple social media platforms. 

That being said, during their rapid rise, the global girl group was not immune to criticism and hate from fans, with a common controversy surrounding whether the group is truly a Western pop act or if they’re a Korean Pop (K-pop) group. Another debate was over an atypical single, “Gnarly,” that had a unique and bold tone to it. With one member, Jeung, being underage, some fans online questioned whether the choreography was appropriate for the underage dancer. 

Despite this, KATSEYE also has a wide range of topics and depth, making them more than just a pop act. By merging Hybe’s intense training style with Greffen’s marketing style, the final depiction of the group is diverse as well as multicultural, pushing the limits of stereotypical pop groups. Each member brings a distinct background, spanning from all over the world. This wide range of nationalities appeals to the audience, as the group dynamic mirrors the diversity of their audience.

In June 2025, KATSEYE launched the Beautiful Chaos EP, followed by promotional performances and multiple media appearances. The schedule of the group’s future Beautiful Chaos World Tour begins in November 2025, with many stops planned across North America to Asia. They also partnered with Toca Boca World in June 2025, becoming the first real-world music group featured as characters in the popular digital game.

Though KATSEYE’s journey is still in its early chapters, the effects it has had all over the globe are unforgettable. Built through a partnership of the west to east, and powered by the six members, the group represents the purpose of music and how it can be used to serve as a shared language among an increasingly diverse world.