KATSEYE is dominating social media after a fiery dance break performance of “Gnarly” during their Beautiful Chaos Tour. Clips from the stage quickly went viral on multiple short-video platforms, sparking comparisons with top K-pop girl groups, notably BLACKPINK. Fans praised not only the choreography and high-energy music but also KATSEYE’s stage presence and confidence in handling daring outfits while maintaining professionalism.
During the performance, the members donned bold outfits featuring gem-encrusted bras and ultra-short bottoms, perfectly complementing their synchronized dance moves. The routine included sharp hip movements, spins, and even twerking, delivered with the precision and attitude of Western pop, making the stage feel electrifying.
Fans highlighted the combination of athletic physiques, dance skill, and stage control as factors behind the performance’s viral success.
This explosive energy has led many fans to compare KATSEYE with BLACKPINK, noting that KATSEYE’s lineup may have an advantage in dance performance and overall body aesthetics. The group’s members possess athletic, Western-style physiques well-suited for strong, sexy choreography, whereas BLACKPINK’s daring outfits sometimes spark controversy despite similar stylistic intentions.
Debuting in June 2024 through the reality program The Debut: Dream Academy, a collaboration between HYBE and Geffen, KATSEYE was positioned from the start as a global girl group rather than a traditional K-pop idol group. The six-member lineup includes Sophia (Philippines), Yoonchae (South Korea), Manon (Switzerland), and three Americans: Lara, Megan, and Daniela. This multinational setup and hybrid musical style blending Western pop with K-pop helped them reach international audiences immediately.
2025 marked a breakout year for KATSEYE with the global success of “Gnarly” and “Gabriela”. By September, the group surpassed 30 million monthly listeners on Spotify, a rare feat for a girl group active for just over a year. The Beautiful Chaos EP exceeded 700 million streams, “Gnarly” reached nearly 200 million streams in 113 days, and “Gabriela” surpassed 394 million streams in just over three months. Both tracks charted on the Billboard Global 200, UK Singles Chart, and multiple Asian digital charts, solidifying KATSEYE’s status as a global contender.
A major milestone came with their two 2026 Grammy nominations: Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, with “Gabriela” competing against songs like Golden by K-Pop Demon Hunters and APT. by Rosé & Bruno Mars. KATSEYE stands alongside international names such as Olivia Dean and Alex Warren, a first for a K-pop rookie group. BLACKPINK has yet to receive a Grammy nomination as a group, highlighting KATSEYE’s unprecedented achievement.
KATSEYE also made their mark on international stages like Lollapalooza and the VMAs, earning accolades for performance creativity and artistry. At the VMAs, they were nominated for MTV Push Performance of the Year with Touch and Best Group, winning their first Moonman trophy, signaling their potential to penetrate the U.S. music award circuit.
With a rapidly growing fandom and backing from HYBE and Universal Music Group, KATSEYE is now seen as the next global girl group poised to rival BLACKPINK.
Sources: K14