The record label responsible for the success of Korean pop phenomenon BTS has unveiled the lineup of 20 contestants competing for a coveted spot in the upcoming “global girl group.” This audition process, reminiscent of The X Factor, will be captured in a documentary series on Netflix. The initiative is a collaboration between South Korean entertainment company Hybe, the force behind BTS, and US music label Geffen Records. Out of 120,000 submissions, these labels will ultimately select the final members for the girl group.
Notably, reports have surfaced indicating that several high-profile figures, including Ariana Grande and Demi Lovato, have severed ties with talent manager Scott “Scooter” Braun, who serves as the CEO of Hybe America.
This venture marks the first instance in which a US-based girl group will undergo the esteemed K-pop training and development system, which has quietly honed the contestants’ skills over the past year in Los Angeles, as the labels have revealed.
Starting from September 1, fans can follow the journey of the 20 aspiring artists on a YouTube program titled “The Debut: Dream Academy.” This endeavor comes almost two years after the initial announcement of a partnership aimed at creating a new girl group with talents from around the world. The final group members will be determined later this year, along with the band’s name.
Moreover, the process of crafting this unique girl group, spanning a year, will be chronicled in an upcoming docuseries on Netflix. Set to premiere in 2024, the series will be directed by Nadia Hallgren, the creator of the Emmy-nominated documentary “Becoming.”
This new girl group follows in the footsteps of globally recognized supergroups like Little Mix and One Direction, both formed on the UK talent show The X Factor.
In recent years, K-pop has evolved from its origins in electronic, hip-hop, pop, and rock to become a distinct subculture of its own. K-pop girl group Blackpink made history by headlining the British Summer Time festival in Hyde Park, becoming the first Korean band to achieve such a feat. Similarly, the K-pop boyband BTS has garnered international acclaim for their self-produced music and activism since their debut in 2013, earning accolades at events like the MTV European and Video Music Awards.
At the press event for this endeavor, Hybe chairman Bang Si-Hyuk expressed his desire to create an international group rooted in K-pop methodology. He emphasized the importance of a capable partner and discussed his connection with John Janick, chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M, as they share musical and creative resonance.
John Janick added that their partnership aligns with their shared beliefs in artist development, music, and creativity. He highlighted the significance of collaborating with Bang and the Geffen team to establish a distinctive music experience, praising the talent and dedication of each candidate.
“The Debut: Dream Academy” on YouTube will span 12 weeks, culminating in a live finale on November 17 where top contestants will compete for a spot in the final girl group.
