KATSEYE (stylized in all caps, pronounced “cat’s eye”) is a six-member multinational girl group based in Los Angeles, formed through the 2023 reality survival show The Debut: Dream Academy by HYBE and Geffen Records. The group consists of Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Manon Bannerman, Megan Skiendiel, Sophia Laforteza, and Yoonchae Jeong. They debuted on June 28, 2024, with the single “Debut”, followed by viral success with “Touch” and their first EP SIS (Soft Is Strong) in August 2024.
Their second EP, Beautiful Chaos, released June 27, 2025, included the single “Gnarly”, which became their first Billboard Hot 100 entry. Known for combining K-pop training with Western pop stylings, KATSEYE has gained a massive international fanbase known as EYEKONS. The group promotes inclusivity, with two openly bisexual members, and has won multiple accolades, including a Teen Choice Award and a sold-out North American tour.
KATSEYE Wiki/Bio
| Group Name | KATSEYE |
| Debut Date | June 28, 2024 |
| Members | Sophia, Manon, Daniela, Lara, Megan, Yoonchae |
| Origin | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Genres | Pop, K-pop-inspired |
| Labels | HYBE, Geffen Records |
| Fandom Name | EYEKONS (from “eye” + “icon”) |
| Official Greeting | “Hello, we are KATSEYE!” |
| Instagram ID | @katseyeworld |
KATSEYE Formation and Early History
KATSEYE was born from The Debut: Dream Academy, HYBE and Geffen’s global talent search that drew over 120,000 applicants. After months of training and elimination rounds, the final six members were selected in the November 17, 2023 finale. Their journey was captured in the Netflix docuseries Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE, released August 21, 2024, showcasing their training in vocals, dance, and team dynamics.
The group’s name was inspired by the cat’s eye gemstone, symbolizing clarity and diversity. Member Lara Raj proposed spelling it with a “K” to reflect their modern edge and connection to K-pop culture.
KATSEYE Members
| Member | Details |
| Sophia Laforteza | Born Dec 31, 2002; Filipino-American; Leader, Lead Vocal; BTS fan (V) |
| Manon Bannerman | Born Sep 13, 2001; Swiss-Italian/Ghanaian; Center, Main Visual; Polyglot, songwriter |
| Daniela Avanzini | Born Mar 12, 2003; Venezuelan-Cuban-American; Main Dancer; ex-AGT contestant |
| Lara Raj | Born Oct 4, 2003; Indian-American; Main Vocal; Bisexual; Beyoncé-inspired |
| Megan Skiendiel | Born Apr 17, 2003; Chinese-Singaporean-American; Lead Dancer; Bisexual, overcame injury |
| Yoonchae Jeong | Born Dec 6, 2007; South Korean; Maknae; Inspired by Huh Yunjin (LE SSERAFIM) |
KATSEYE Discography
Singles:
- Debut (June 28, 2024): Filmed in Medellín, Colombia; 2.3M+ views in 3 days
- Touch (July 26, 2024): TikTok viral hit with 400K+ user videos
- Gnarly (April 30, 2025): Billboard Hot 100 No. 92; Spotify U.S. Top Songs No. 1
- Gabriela (June 20, 2025): Co-written with Charli XCX; Jessica Alba cameo
- Gameboy (June 27, 2025): Third single off Beautiful Chaos
- Flame (Nov 14, 2024): Theme for Netflix’s Jentry Chau vs. The Underworld
EPs:
- SIS (Soft Is Strong) (Aug 16, 2024): 5-track debut EP; Billboard 200 No. 119
- Beautiful Chaos (June 27, 2025): More mature, features Ice Spice remix of “Gnarly”
KATSEYE Net Worth and Income
| Field | Details |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1–$2 million per member (2025) |
| Income Sources | Streaming (24.5M+ monthly listeners), album sales, tours, endorsements |
| Brand Deals | Coach, Matin Kim; Netflix revenue; concert merchandise |
Their commercial success is bolstered by strategic endorsements, sold-out tours, and visibility from streaming platforms and Netflix.
KATSEYE Controversies
- Scooter Braun Photo (June 2025): Backlash for being spotted with Braun amid political activism; accused of hypocrisy.
- Daniela’s Parents: Alleged Trump supporters; fans debated her silence on the matter.
- Manon’s Appearance: Lip filler rumors sparked online speculation.
- “Gnarly” Criticism: Some fans felt it strayed from their potential pop trajectory.
Despite these, KATSEYE maintained strong public support and grew their fanbase.
KATSEYE Recent Updates
2024
- Debut Era: Released “Debut,” “Touch,” and EP SIS
- Netflix Docuseries: Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE aired in August
- Asian Tour: Began September 12; Megan missed some dates due to injury
- Fashion Week: Walked Coach NYFW and launched Matin Kim collab
2025
- Award Wins: Teen Choice Award for Breakout Group
- Chart Milestone: “Gnarly” enters Billboard Hot 100
- EP Release: Beautiful Chaos (June 27)
- Tour: Beautiful Chaos Tour (Nov–Dec 2025) sold out
- Lightstick Launch: Official KATSEYE lightstick released July 16
- Academy Invite: Invited to join the Recording Academy (July)
- LGBTQ+ Advocacy: Collaborated with Gigi Goode; inclusive themes in choreography and lyrics
Conclusion
KATSEYE is not just a girl group — they are a symbol of global collaboration, artistic innovation, and cultural fusion. With chart-topping hits, authentic personalities, and a socially engaged fandom, they continue to shape the future of pop with resilience and inclusivity.