HYBE and Geffen Records, which successfully grew KATSEYE into 'the next-generation pop iKON', are preparing a second global girl group.
HYBE x Geffen Records announced on the 7th that they will launch a large-scale audition 'WORLD SCOUT THE FINAL PIECE' across Japan.
'WORLD SCOUT THE FINAL PIECE' is a global talent discovery project co-planned by HYBE and Geffen Records. HYBE's elite scouting team will directly seek aspiring stars with outstanding potential.
Successful audition candidates will undergo 'K-pop style training' developed by HYBE and Geffen Records for the U.S. market from October to December. Those selected will join a training camp established in the U.S. and will be finalized as members of a team aiming for a debut next year through competitions.
The entire journey will be exclusively revealed on the Japanese OTT service ABEMA in the spring of 2026. HYBE x Geffen Records introduced 'WORLD SCOUT THE FINAL PIECE' as a project that will capture the process of talented individuals growing together with world-class producers.
There is anticipation for whether HYBE's expansion strategy of 'K-pop globalization' targeting the global music market will succeed once again. HYBE x Geffen Records has already birthed the six-member global girl group KATSEYE through the large-scale audition 'The Debut: Dream Academy' in 2023.
During the airing of 'The Debut: Dream Academy', viewers worldwide watched with interest as participants from different regions and racial backgrounds competed and grew within the 'K-pop production system'. This served as a stepping stone for the 'K-pop DNA' to be transplanted into the world's largest pop market, the U.S.
KATSEYE, which created a popular sensation upon debut, recently showcased overwhelming musical capabilities on the 'Lollapalooza Chicago' stage, eliciting explosive responses. They are consistently loved in major global charts, including the U.S. Billboard main charts 'Hot 100' and 'Billboard 200', achieving remarkable success.
[Photo] HYBE
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