HYBE-Geffen Records is preparing to introduce the ‘next KATSEYE’ through the audition program.
The audition program, titled “World Scout: The Final Piece,” will premiere on the Japanese OTT platform ABEMA at 8 PM on February 24.
“World Scout: The Final Piece” follows the journey to select the final member of a four-member global girl group. Unlike typical auditions, this project is focused on filling just one remaining spot, which drew massive attention from around the world. More than 14,000 applicants applied for the single position.
All three were previously introduced through “The Debut: Dream Academy,” the audition series that produced KATSEYE. With the lineup nearly complete, the new group is targeting a 2026 debut.
The audition and training process took place from October to December 2025. Contestants underwent intensive K-pop-style training, with the final evaluation held in Los Angeles. Applicants were required to submit vocal or rap performances as well as dance videos, and finalists had to be prepared to relocate to the United States for training. Eligibility for the audition was open to participants aged 15 to 24, including those identifying as female or non-binary.
The three confirmed members already bring diverse backgrounds and experience. Emily Kelabos, a 19-year-old from Texas, reached the Top 10 on “Dream Academy” and previously danced for XG at Coachella last year. She has also worked as a choreographer on a music video.
Lexi Levin, 21, from Stockholm, Sweden, voluntarily withdrew from “Dream Academy” after seven weeks. However, she stood out enough to catch the attention of HYBE Chairman Bang Si Hyuk. Samara Siqueira, 19, from Rio de Janeiro, placed seventh on the show and appeared in music videos even before joining the program.
The studio panel for “World Scout: The Final Piece” brings together well-known figures from both K-pop and Japanese entertainment. Sakura and Kazuha from LE SSERAFIM, Iroha and Moka from ILLIT, and Rino Sashihara, a former AKB48 producer and popular actress, will appear on the show. They will observe the contestants’ progress and take part in key moments where important decisions are made.
The main judge is Son Seong Deuk, Chief Creator at HYBE-Geffen Records and longtime choreographer for BTS. He previously oversaw all creative aspects of “The Debut: Dream Academy,” including planning, music, visuals, and direction.
Meanwhile, HYBE Chairman Bang Si Hyuk continues to push the company’s global strategy by applying the K-pop training and production system to global artists. Through its partnership with Geffen Records, HYBE aims to expand what it calls the “K-pop methodology” into the global pop market.
This project is a direct follow-up to the successful launch of KATSEYE, HYBE and Geffen’s first global girl group. KATSEYE’s rapid success is the blueprint this new group aims to follow.
In less than a year since their debut, the group entered the US Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard 200, the UK Official Singles Top 100, and Spotify’s Global Chart. On top of all, KATSEYE received nominations for the 68th Grammy Awards for Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.