Hybe’s new girl band Katseye says rigorous training drives K-pop competitiveness

CAT’S EYE, a multinational and multicultural six-member girl group, debuted through a joint venture between HYBE and Geffen. (Hybe·Geffen Records)

A key strength of the K-pop system is “rigorous training,” according to Katseye, the multinational girl group co-produced by South Korea’s Hybe Co. and U.S. Geffen Records under Universal Music Group.

“The first thing I learned from the K-pop idol training system was strict discipline,” said Katseye member Lara, during a press conference in Seoul on Wednesday.

“I experienced how hard I had to work to achieve what I wanted.”

The group was in Seoul as part of their Asia promotional tour.

Katseye is the first project launched by Hybe Chairman Bang Si-hyuk to export the “K-pop methodology” globally. Following a global audition show last year that drew 120,000 participants, the group debuted in the United States in June after an extensive trainee period.

Their July release, “Touch,” features an infectious melody and has gained traction on short-form platforms. The track was produced by renowned musicians, including Cashmere Cat.

Their debut mini-album, “Soft Is Strong (SIS),” which includes tracks like “Debut” and “My Way,” entered the Billboard 200 at No. 119 at the end of August, marking a significant achievement.

The group, made up of six members—Manon, Sophia, Daniela, Lara, Megan, and Yoonchae—emphasizes their unique blend of K-pop and multiculturalism. “Compared to K-pop, our diverse cultural backgrounds allow us to reach a broader audience and expand boundaries,” said Sophia.

The group aspires to be the world’s top girl band, citing iconic 1990s and 2000s girl groups like the Spice Girls and the Pussycat Dolls as inspirations.

“It would be fun and an honor to hold concerts in each of our home countries,” said Yoonchae. “As a global girl group, we don’t target any specific region but view every country as important. We aim to be active in various cultures and nations,” said Lara.