The group KATSEYE, which set Coachella ablaze, is set to make another appearance on domestic music shows.
According to their agency HYBE-Geffen Records, KATSEYE will arrive in Korea via Incheon International Airport on the 24th. They will kick off their schedule with a fan signing event on the 25th, followed by various appearances on music shows and other activities to engage with their Korean fans.
KATSEYE left a strong impression during their visit to Korea last May with their performance of 'Gnarly.' The members showcased confident facial expressions, dynamic twerking, and a powerful 'hammer performance' that seemed to smash everything in its path.
Their performance on Korean music shows helped propel the popularity of 'Gnarly.' Choosing Korean music shows as the platform to effectively showcase their new music, concept, visuals, and performance proved to be a successful strategy, leading KATSEYE to enter the US Billboard 'Hot 100.'
This time, they are ready with their new single 'PINKY UP.' The song features a signature choreography of raising the pinky finger and spinning like a doll fixed to the ground. The jump bounce during the heightened beat, the stamping step that powerfully hits the ground, and the flashy hand movements add excitement to the performance.
The addictive rhythm and choreography have sparked a challenge trend. Influencers like Charli D'Amelio, who has 157.1 million followers, and Filipino dancer and creator Niana Guerrero have joined the 'PINKY UP' dance challenge, creating a buzz on social media.
'PINKY UP' is already making waves on major global charts. It debuted at number 28 on the latest US Billboard 'Hot 100' chart (dated April 25) and reached number 14 on the UK 'Official Singles Top 100' (April 17-23), marking the group's highest position on that chart. It also ranked 18th on Spotify's 'Weekly Top Songs Global' (April 10-16), the highest entry among new songs during that period.
KATSEYE, led by HYBE's Chairman Bang Si-hyuk, debuted in the US in August 2024 under the 'multi-home, multi-genre' strategy based on the 'K-pop methodology.' Recognized with nominations for the '68th Grammy Awards' and the '2026 American Music Awards,' they are set to release their third EP 'WILD' this August.
Reporter: Kim Ji-won, TenAsia one@tenasia.co.kr