Exhilarating choreography, compelling music, and fierce energy envelops the stage wherever KATSEYE goes. Just two years ago, these girls were normal people like you and me, thrown into a rigorous reality talent show, training every day for 12 weeks and competing for a spot in the newest girl group. But just how do you become a global superstar?
The global girl group KATSEYE has been a huge hit ever since their debut in June of 2024, captivating audiences with enthralling songs such as Debut, Touch, Gnarly, and Gabriela just to name a few. Just one year after their debut, KATSEYE won their first MTV music video award for Push performance of the year at the VMAs, a notable achievement so early in their career. This award only showcases their rapid climb of significance within the music industry, and their swift rise to stardom. KATEYEs fame has taken over the internet, with people excitedly recreating dances, creating viral edits of the members, or streaming their songs. Sophomore Emma Bourgeous confirmed this internet takeover. “I’ve heard of them from social media, commercials, and from other people like my friends,” she told me. KATSEYE has won over a large number of loyal fans, EYEKONS. One reason KATSEYE is so appealing are the diverse members, and the opportunity to choose a bias. Sophomore and EYEKON Sarah Berrouz shared her thoughts on the matter. “I think it brings a fandom more together,” She told me. KATSEYE is the first ever global girl group produced by HYBE, a company that usually launches k-pop groups (such as LE SSERAFIM, BTS, ENHYPEN, and ILLIT to name a few). KATSEYE members consist of girls from various ethnicities, such as Yoonchae from Korea, Sophia from the Philippines, and Lara who is Indian-American.
Even before their successful debut, the girls were working hard to secure a spot in the group, through the survival show Dream Academy. Launched by HYBE and Geffen Records, Dream Academy was a twelve week long rigorous training program, where 20 candidates from around the world competed for a spot in KATSEYE. The show received mixed reviews among fans, some criticizing the harsh environment and format of the production, while others praised it for its authenticity and ability to engage with fans. When I asked Sarah her thoughts on the show, she explained her viewpoint: “I think it’s really interesting how they found Manon from social media and just dm’d her. I feel like it’s so cool how social media can bring so many opportunities.” Dream Academy created hype for the debut of KATSEYE, and allowed fans to get to know the girls before they even make the group, further strengthening the importance of biases. Having a loyal fanbase is crucial for artists, and there is no doubt HYBE created Dream Academy for that purpose.
Another alluring factor that may key towards KATSEYE’S rapid success: the addicting choreography. One famous example of this was a partnership between the girl group and the popular brand GAP. Emma acknowledged this internet phenomenon: “I really liked the choreography and I felt like it was a positive ad for their brand.” Not only did this ad blow up, thousands of fans hurried to GAP to buy their favorite members clothing item, such as Sophia’s denim pleated skirt, and Megan’s denim shell top just to name a few. The dance went viral on tiktok, and the commercial’s iconic line ‘Better in Denim’ left an impact on viewers around the world. The use of the famed song ‘Milkshake’ created a timeless and compelling mantra. All these factors contribute to KATSEYE’s immediate success, resulting in winning a VMA. A sentimental Lara Raj (the girlgroups main vocalist) told the crowd, “This is our first time ever doing this… We’ve been going through a lot together, so having this moment feels like so rewarding and feels like everything has paid off and fuels us to keep going. So, thank you,” she addressed.
KATSEYE has come a long way since their debut, collecting both loyal fans and viewers attention alike. Sarah shares, “I think what makes them appealing is obviously the diversity, and you can see in interviews that they all get along. You can tell it’s not just a business thing, it’s a friendship thing. It’s nice to see girls in a group with a connection.” Whether they’re dominating the stage performing Gnarly, or serenading the crowd with Touch, KATSEYE promises to be a unique and thrilling group, winning over the internet and EYEKONs from all over the world.
