
HYBE and US label Geffen Records will launch their second global girl group in 2026, following their first joint act, KATSEYE.
The Korean entertainment powerhouse said Friday that the four-member act is slated to debut next year. Three of the members — Emily Kelavos from the US, Samara Siqueira from Brazil and Lexie Levin from Sweden — are alumnae of The Debut: Dream Academy, the audition program that produced KATSEYE.
HYBE and Geffen unveiled the trio on Aug. 29 through an introductory film posted on their official YouTube channel, giving fans a first glimpse of the young artists’ journey ahead.
Emily, who has trained as a professional dancer since age 14, reached the final round of Dream Academy. Samara, recognized for her soulful and delicate vocals, placed seventh in the competition, while Lexie drew attention for her songwriting abilities.
The last member will be selected through a new audition program, World Scout: The Final Piece, set to air next spring on Japanese streaming platform ABEMA.
With its upcoming girl group, HYBE is doubling down on its global strategy — bringing together diverse young talents and broadening its partnerships with major US labels.
By Byung-Yeon Yoo
yooby@hankyung.com