HYBE and Ryan Tedder Are Teaming Up To Build The Next Global Boy Group – Here’s How To Join
The initiative comes as a new partnership between the powerhouse label and world-renowned producer, following their collaborations for KATSEYE, &TEAM, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER.
Courtesy of HYBE and Univ
Courtesy of HYBE Labels
Looking to join the male version of KATSEYE?
HYBE is teaming up with Grammy-winning producer and OneRepublic frontman Ryan Tedder to form a new boy group, the company announced last February 19, 2025.
The project, spearheaded by Tedder alongside HYBE chairman Bang Si-Hyuk and HYBE America CEO Scooter Braun, will kick off with a global talent search. Once the members are selected, they will undergo a rigorous training program blending HYBE’s signature K-pop development system with Tedder’s creative direction. The training will take place in Los Angeles.
Tedder, a powerhouse hitmaker, has previously collaborated with several HYBE acts, including KATSEYE (“Debut”), &TEAM (“Dropkick”), and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (“Back for More” with Anitta).
The initiative follows HYBE’s high-profile partnership with Geffen Records to launch KATSEYE, a project that successfully introduced HYBE’s artist development model to the U.S. pop market.
“Artists under HYBE have consistently achieved major global milestones, dominating the charts year after year,” said Bang Si-Hyuk in a statement. “With KATSEYE, we’ve proven that our K-pop methodology resonates in the U.S. mainstream market. Partnering with Ryan Tedder on this new boy group is another step in expanding our influence in the industry.”
Tedder echoed the enthusiasm, adding, “I’m thrilled to be working with HYBE on this project. Bang and his team are the best in the business at building fan engagement, and our goal is to create a group that’s not just artistically exceptional but also the most fan-focused in the world.”
The global audition process is now open to aspiring artists of all nationalities between the ages of 13 to 23. Applicants must submit a photo portfolio, performance videos, and a personal introduction video as part of their requirements. Read up on the full process and list of requirements below.
Eligibility Requirements:
- He/His/Them
- 13 – 23 Years Old
- Open to all nationalities
Submission Requirements:
- 1 Video: Chat to Camera
- 2 Videos: Vocal Clips
- 2 Videos: Dance Clips
- 5 Photos: Full-Body, Head, Head & Shoulders, Side Profile (Left and Right)
How To Apply:
- Submit all required information and applications in a form here.
- Applications are to be accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.
The team is also conducting in-person auditions in select cities, with the first in-person auditions occurring in Los Angeles last February 22, 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on more in-person events.