HYBE’s Upcoming Girl Group’s Visuals Hit With Criticism Before Debut

The problem is not based on individual appearance.

In 2023, Dream Academy aired, showing the formation of a global girl group as a collaboration between HYBE and Geffen Records.

| YouTube

As the show progressed, trainees were eliminated until the current line-up of KATSEYE was formed. Some of the trainees have since debuted, both as solo artists and in groups, though many have not had plans announced since the show ended.

Last, HYBE announced that another girl group would be formed from some of the contestants, along with another member added through the survival show, World Scout: The Final Piece. This line-up will consist of Emily, Lexie, Samara, and a Japanese member selected through the show.

Lexie | HYBE

Samara | HYBE

Emily | HYBE

Of the show’s contestants, three remain: Kuwahara Ayana, Tobi Sakura, and Otani Aoi.

Tobi Sakura | HYBE

Otani Aoi | HYBE

Kuwahara Ayana | HYBE

The group and possible members were discussed on a forum post, where their visuals were examined. Rather than criticizing individual appearances, netizens questioned the visual harmony of the group as a whole, arguing that the new member would not fit the visuals of the existing members.