In just over a year, KATSEYE has transitioned from reality TV contenders to global pop sensations. The six-member group – Daniela, Manon, Megan, Lara, Sophia, and Yoonchae – was formed through HYBE and Geffen Records’ 2023 competition series Dream Academy and made their debut in June 2024 with the track ‘Debut,’ quickly followed by their hit single ‘Touch.’
Their 2025 journey has involved raising the bar with tracks like ‘Gnarly’, the telenovela-inspired ‘Gabriela’, and their newest single ‘Gameboy’, all leading up to the Beautiful Chaos EP. For those delving deeper into their discography, songs like ‘Mean Girls’ and ‘M.I.A.’ showcase the group’s talent for going beyond catchy hooks, presenting b-sides with incisive lyrics, infectious rhythms, and a unique sense of character.
Aside from their music, their charm stems from their distinct makeup – the girls represent a truly multicultural collective hailing from North and Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.
This diversity, paired with a strong online presence, has elevated KATSEYE to one of the most visible and discussed new acts of their generation. This recognition has led to high-profile collaborations with brands like Glossier, Fendi, Monster High, Pandora, Urban Outfitters, and Lush, as well as artists such as Jessica Alba, Ice Spice, and TXT’s Yeonjun.
With the Beautiful Chaos World Tour approaching, we spoke with the group about their creative risks, cultural influences, and their own beautiful chaos.
—
You’ve described Beautiful Chaos as comforting despite the mess; why do you think this resonates so much in today’s world?
Lara: There's a lot of chaos in the world, and people often try to hide their messiness and complications. We aim to encourage everyone to embrace that!
You’ve referred to this era as bolder – sonically, visually, emotionally. What’s something you tried on this project that would have intimidated you last year?
Lara: We wouldn't have been afraid to try these things. This vibe has always felt authentic to us, and we’ve always wanted to explore it. The overall sound and delivery of each line and production excited us!
A lot of care has gone into the visuals of this era. What references or emotions inspired the imagery for Beautiful Chaos?
Manon: Personally, I drew a lot of inspiration from past girl groups like the Pussycat Dolls!
What was your reaction when you first heard the demo for ‘Gnarly’? Did it change your expectations for the EP?
Sophia: I immediately wanted it to be ours because I felt it was something KATSEYE could truly own. It instantly gave me a vision of authenticity and chaos as our direction.
Is there a lyric from this project that resonates differently now that it’s out?
Manon: Yes, in ‘Mean Girls’ there’s a line that says, “Yes yes, this is why I hate the internet yes, but you’re not gonna kill my happiness.” I find I relate to this lyric significantly lately.
‘Gabriela’ features your first Spanish verse and incorporates telenovela drama. Why were you drawn to that sound and story, and what did it unlock creatively for you?
Daniela: Gabriela was not just a video; it was deeply emotional. Growing up in a family of musicians and dancers, I was surrounded by the Spanish language, music, and movement. Performing my first Spanish verse felt like honoring my roots and expressing my true self. It became a bridge to my heritage and the Spanish-speaking audience, signaling, “This is where I come from, and I see you.”
Has your cultural background influenced how you interpret music, even on a subconscious level?
Yoonchae: Yes, definitely. Growing up in Korea has made me accustomed to how all parts of a song come together. That sense of unity influences how I listen to and understand music.
Are there sounds, instruments, or storytelling styles from your heritage that you are eager to explore in future projects?
Lara: Absolutely. Indian and South Asian music has so much depth and has been sampled across various genres. There are countless fascinating melodies, instruments, scales, and vibes to explore within our music, and I can't wait for us to authentically incorporate those! I also dream of singing in Tamil and Hindi (my languages) in one of our songs, and I know that will happen soon!
What is a specific comfort from your culture – food, music, or sayings – that helps you feel connected to yourself?
Yoonchae: For me, kimchi jjigae is my biggest comfort. Growing up in Korea, I had a lot of kimchi jjigae made by my mom. Whenever I miss Korea, a warm bowl of it brings me immediate comfort.
—
If you could bring one tradition, phrase, or family ritual into your next music video,
“I aim to create an intimate atmosphere in my shows, even when there are many attendees. I want everyone to feel as though they’ve truly spent an evening with me.” That's how
In “Crashing the Car,” Scottish singer-songwriter Blair Davie embraces vulnerability and emotional surrender, creating a heartfelt, intimate anthem that captures the beautiful risk of falling profoundly in love.
Debbii Dawson explores themes of resilience, reinvention, and radical self-expression while discussing her latest tracks and revealing the inspirations behind her daring, genre-defying music in 2025.
UK RnB artist Mnelia is back with her latest single, 'BroZone'. This release comes after 'My Man,' which was launched in June. 'BroZone' is produced by Nosa Apollo (Ella Mai,
Big Noble, a project directed by Daniel Kessler and Joseph Fraioli from Interpol, is set to launch their new album 'It's Later Than You Think' this summer. The upcoming
Nell Mescal has released a new song titled 'Carried Away'. The Irish songwriter recently signed a contract with Atlantic Records before heading to America for
In slightly more than a year, KATSEYE has transitioned from aspiring reality TV contestants to worldwide pop icons. They were created through the 2023 competition series by HYBE and Geffen Records.