Girl group KATSEYE. Photo from KATSEYE's X accountWhat does it take to be a pop star? An upcoming Netflix docu-series delves into this question by chronicling the creation of KATSEYE, a multinational female pop group that includes Filipino talent Sophia Laforteza.
On Monday, Netflix Philippines unveiled the official trailer for "Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE," which follows 20 contestants from different countries through their yearlong journey in competing to become a part of KATSEYE.
KATSEYE is jointly managed by HYBE, the South Korean entertainment giant behind K-pop sensation BTS, and American label Geffen Records under Universal Music Group. The six-member act was formed through the YouTube talent competition "The Debut: Dream Academy."
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Netflix said the eight-part series, which premieres on August 21, offers a "compelling portrayal of the road to international stardom" and insights into the "unique training and development program developed by HYBE and Geffen Records."
Photo courtesy of Netflix
KATSEYE—also consisting of members from the United States, South Korea and Switzerland—debuted in June 28 with the single "Debut" and is set to release its first extended play, "SIS (Soft Is Strong)" on August 16.
KATSEYE is the latest example of K-pop companies expanding their reach beyond South Korea. By utilizing the K-pop training system, these companies are putting out pop acts aimed at international audiences.
JYP Entertainment, home to acts such as TWICE and Stray Kids, also unveiled its own American girl group VCHA, while SM Entertainment, which manages groups like NCT and aespa, recently introduced its first British-based band Dear Alice.
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