KATSEYE's 'PINKY UP' Climbs Billboard Hot 100, Marking Another Milestone for the Rising Global Girl Group

Global girl group KATSEYE, under HYBE-Geffen Records, has once again made a significant impact on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. Their latest single, 'PINKY UP,' has secured a spot in the upper ranks of the chart, marking their fourth consecutive entry following hits like 'Gnarly,' 'Gabriela,' and 'Internet Girl.'

According to the latest Billboard chart released on April 21 (local time), 'PINKY UP' debuted at an impressive 28th position on the Hot 100. This marks the highest debut for a KATSEYE track on this chart. Previously, 'Gnarly' debuted at 92nd (May 17, 2025), 'Gabriela' at 94th (July 5, 2025), and 'Internet Girl' at 29th (January 13, 2025).

Expectations are high for KATSEYE's career trajectory. 'PINKY UP' has already achieved a personal best by reaching 14th on the UK Official Singles Top 100 (April 17-23). Additionally, it ranked 18th on Spotify's 'Weekly Top Songs Global' (April 10-16), making it the highest-ranking new entry during that period.

Despite being a relatively new act, having debuted less than two years ago, KATSEYE continues to set significant milestones with each release, showcasing a presence comparable to established pop stars. Their stage performances have garnered word-of-mouth acclaim, leading to increased radio play and streaming numbers, creating a positive feedback loop that translates into tangible music consumption (streaming and downloads).

Following their performances at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 10 and 17, the group received an enthusiastic response. The signature 'PINKY UP' choreography, involving a pinky finger gesture, engaged the crowd of approximately 60,000, while the catchy chorus prompted spontaneous sing-alongs.

The excitement surrounding 'PINKY UP' has spread across social media. According to HYBE-Geffen Records, over the past week (April 13-20), more than 7,000 pieces of content featuring 'PINKY UP' were created daily on TikTok, with about 30% originating from the US. This indicates KATSEYE's deep-rooted popularity in the world's largest pop market.

KATSEYE debuted in August 2024 in the US under HYBE's 'Multi-home, Multi-genre' strategy, based on the 'K-pop methodology.' The group, nominated for the 68th Grammy Awards and the 2026 American Music Awards, is set to release their third EP, 'WILD,' this August.

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr