HYBE's global expansion has extended beyond exporting Korean artists to overseas markets. The company has also developed groups specifically for audiences outside South Korea.
Three examples are &TEAM, aoen and KATSEYE. &TEAM debuted in Japan in December 2022, followed by aoen in June 2025. KATSEYE, developed through a partnership between HYBE and Geffen Records, debuted in June 2024 and is based in Los Angeles.
These projects reflect HYBE's strategy of applying K-pop-style artist development and production methods in different markets while creating groups with distinct cultural and musical identities.
The three groups are selected examples rather than a complete list of HYBE's international projects. Their debut locations also should not be confused with the individual nationalities of their members.
Joonha Yoo is a bilingual journalist at AJU Press (AJP), covering music, culture, entertainment and Korea’s automotive industry.
Raised in Fort Collins, Colorado, he often writes from the scene, bringing firsthand detail to stories ranging
from BTS comeback concerts to unique cultural events that catch the world's eye.
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