A “younger sister” group to KATSEYE has finally arrived!
On the 12th, HYBE-Geffen Records announced the birth of the four-member girl group SAINT SATINE through the 12th episode of “World Scout: The Final Piece” on the Japanese OTT platform ABEMA. Joining Emily, Lexie, and Samara, who all came from the previous audition program “The Debut: Dream Academy” that produced KATSEYE, Sakura became the final piece of the puzzle. Sakura was named the winner of the final audition, beating odds of 14,000 to 1 for the single remaining spot.
The final stage was intense from the start. Sakura took the stage with the three already confirmed members, performing the new song “PARTY b4 the PARTY.” The crowd gasped when she perfectly executed a high-difficulty split move that she reportedly practiced hundreds of times. Sakura filled the stage with her confident expressions and effortless groove. Son Sung-deuk, HxG Chief Creator, praised her, saying, “I got chills the moment Sakura stepped forward in the performance. It seems she has not only star quality but has reached a level where she can truly explode that potential.”
Ayana’s “WE RIDE” performance was equally impressive. Rather than flashy changes, her solid skills stood out. Her movements and pitch were unwavering, and her way of dominating the stage was striking. Mitra Darab, HxG CEO, noted, “She conveyed her swag well to the audience and it was great to see her enjoying the stage.”
After the performances, the judges faced a tough decision. It was a battle between Sakura, who proved her explosive growth and star power, and Ayana, who showed stable perfection. Beyond individual skill, team chemistry was crucial. Chief Creator Son Sung-deuk mentioned, “I’ve done many audition programs, but this is the first time the judges’ opinions have been this fiercely debated.”
Finally, Sakura’s name was called. The audience erupted in cheers, and Sakura burst into tears, covering her face with her hands.
“I wanted to become an artist who shines on the world stage. I am so grateful that my dream has come true,” she said with a trembling but clear voice.
Ayana remained composed. “I still don’t want to give up on this dream. I will work even harder in the future,” she said. Before leaving the stage, she patted Sakura on the head and whispered “Good luck,” leaving a lasting impression. Their mutual support at the end of the competition was more poignant than any other moment in their three-month journey.
Their seniors, KATSEYE, were also present. Having debuted through HYBE-Geffen Records’ T&D (Training & Development) system and auditions based on Chairman Bang Si-hyuk’s “K-pop methodology,” KATSEYE advised their juniors, “If you think too much, you can’t enjoy the stage,” a sentiment that resonated throughout the final performances.
At the end of the broadcast, the name of HYBE-Geffen Records’ second girl group following KATSEYE was announced as “SAINT SATINE.” Creator Son Sung-deuk explained, “‘Saint’ represents intense charisma and musical presence, while ‘Satin’ signifies a soft, elegant, and sophisticated image.”
Taking the stage together once more, Emily (USA), Lexie (Sweden), Sakura (Japan), and Samara (Brazil) shouted, “The puzzle is complete!” while holding hands tightly. They are now gearing up for the global stage, aiming for a debut in the second half of this year.
