Hybe and Geffen Records have announced a new global girl group initiative. As part of their growing partnership, the “global girl group” project continues their shared push into the international music scene.
This time, it marks their second collaboration in building a multinational act. The new effort, titled “World Scout: The Final Piece,” kicks off with major audition events across Japan. Specifically, the aim is to scout exceptional young talent for a next-generation pop group.
To begin with, Hybe’s top scouting team will take charge of the audition process. They will evaluate performers across multiple regions, focusing on raw potential and performance ability. Once selected, those who pass this initial round will begin “K-pop-style training” modified for the U.S. market. This training period will run from October through December.
Following that, trainees will head to the United States. There, they will enter a competitive camp to determine the final debut lineup. The girl group is expected to debut in 2026.
In the meantime, a streaming platform in Japan will broadcast the full process. The series will follow the auditions, training, and formation of the final group. Hybe and Geffen say it will show the emotional and artistic growth of each performer.
Previously, the companies created Katseye through a similar global project. That group emerged from a 2023 program which drew contestants from around the world. The format successfully adapted the K-pop training system for a global stage.
Now, this new “global girl group” project builds on that momentum. It pushes Hybe’s strategy to expand beyond South Korea’s music market. At the same time, Geffen and Universal Music Group gain new exposure through the K-pop production model.
Altogether, the entire process represents a larger vision. Hybe wants to merge Korean production with Western platforms to reach global fans. The “global girl group” initiative is central to that plan.
If successful, this next debut will shape the future of K-pop-inspired international pop acts. Fans around the world are already watching. The countdown to 2026 has begun.