Katseye

Katseye is a global girl group formed through a unique partnership between HYBE and Geffen Records. The group's six members—Sophia Laforteza, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Manon Bannerman, and Yoonchae Jeung—hail from four countries, reflecting the companies' strategy of international casting. They were selected from the 2023 reality competition Dream Academy, which brought together 20 finalists for an intensive training program in Los Angeles. The entire process, from auditions to debut, was captured in the Netflix docuseries Pop Star Academy: Katseye.

Katseye made their official debut on June 28, 2024 with the single "Debut," co-written by Ryan Tedder. They followed up with "Touch" later that year and released their first EP SIS (Soft Is Strong). In 2025, they released the single "Gnarly," which became their first entry on the Billboard Hot 100. Their second EP Beautiful Chaos arrived on June 27, 2025 and debuted at number four on the Billboard 200, their highest charting release to date. The EP's second single "Gabriela" peaked in the top 40 of the Hot 100 and earned Grammy nominations for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best New Artist.

The group has built a strong visual identity under creative director Humberto Leon, drawing heavily from Y2K fashion. This has led to endorsement deals with Fendi, Gap, Lush, Coach, and Jollibee. Katseye continues to grow their fanbase through social media and live performances, with plans for future touring.[edit]

Katseye was formed through Dream Academy, a reality competition series that aired in 2023. The show was a joint venture between HYBE and Geffen Records, designed to create a global girl group. Thousands of applicants from around the world auditioned, with 20 finalists selected to move to Los Angeles for intensive training in singing, dancing, and stage presence. Over several months, the contestants lived together, underwent rigorous evaluations, and performed in weekly missions.

The final lineup was announced on November 17, 2023, revealing the six members: Sophia Laforteza (Philippines), Daniela Avanzini (USA), Lara Raj (Switzerland), Megan Skiendiel (USA), Manon Bannerman (Switzerland), and Yoonchae Jeung (South Korea). The selection process emphasized not only talent but also chemistry and global appeal. After the show, the group continued training together in LA, preparing for their debut the following summer.[edit]

Katseye's music is rooted in pop with strong R&B and dance-pop influences, characterized by catchy hooks, polished vocal harmonies, and synchronized choreography. Their debut EP SIS (Soft Is Strong) showcased a youthful, aspirational energy with radio-friendly production. Songs like "Debut" and "Touch" emphasized upbeat melodies and tight vocal arrangements.

With their second EP Beautiful Chaos, the group expanded into pop-rock and alternative pop. The lead single "Gnarly" incorporated distorted guitars and edgier production, while "Gabriela" blended pop with Latin rhythms. The EP demonstrated greater lyrical maturity and genre experimentation, earning critical praise for its dynamic range. Katseye's sound continues to evolve, balancing accessible pop with bold stylistic shifts.[edit]

Katseye has been recognized as a pioneering "global girl group," with members from four countries and a deliberate international marketing strategy. Their formation through a reality show and subsequent Netflix docuseries offered transparency into the K-pop-style training system adapted for a Western audience. The group's Y2K fashion identity, shaped by creative director Humberto Leon, has influenced trends and led to major brand partnerships, including campaigns with Fendi's Baguette bag and Gap's low-rise denim.

Beyond fashion, Katseye has secured endorsements with Lush, Coach, and Filipino fast food chain Jollibee, reflecting their broad appeal. Their diverse membership has resonated with fans worldwide, particularly in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, where Sophia Laforteza's presence has drawn significant attention. The group's early Grammy nominations signal their growing impact on the global music scene.[edit]

Katseye's official fandom name is Eyes, announced shortly after their debut. While the group has not yet released an official lightstick or announced a fan color, the fandom has been active in organizing streaming parties for singles like "Gnarly" and "Gabriela" to boost chart performance. Fans engage heavily on social media, particularly on TikTok and Instagram, where the group's Y2K aesthetics and dance challenges generate viral content. The fandom is known for its passionate support across multiple countries, reflecting the group's global membership.[edit]

Sophia Laforteza was a former trainee under ABS-CBN's Star Magic in the Philippines before joining Dream Academy. Lara Raj is fluent in English, German, and French. Megan Skiendiel trained in dance from age 6 and was a competitive hip-hop dancer. Manon Bannerman is of Ghanaian and Swiss descent. Daniela Avanzini previously appeared on the reality show Bring It! as a dancer. Yoonchae Jeung is the only Korean member and the youngest. The group's name "Katseye" is derived from the cat's eye gemstone, symbolizing clarity and global vision. Their debut single "Debut" was co-written by Ryan Tedder.[edit]