HYBE Labels Draws Scrutiny For "Upskirting" Shots In New Girl Group KATSEYE's "Debut" MV

KATSEYE, the “global girl group” whose member line-up was chosen through survival show The Debut: Dream Academy, released their first song “Debut” on June 28. Contrary to the song’s title, this isn’t actually considered the group’s debut, which is set for August 16 with the EP SIS (Soft is Strong).

our first single and MV “Debut” is out now off our upcoming EP, SIS (Soft Is Strong) which will be yours August 16th. 💜 we couldn’t be more excited that you’re here with us.

Stream now: https://t.co/a9Fs2FCmVT
EP Pre-Save: https://t.co/QxI7GMODCm #KATSEYE #KATSEYE_Debut pic.twitter.com/2Ch6S93XPN

— KATSEYE (@katseyeworld) June 28, 2024

Along with the song’s release came a music video produced by Geffen Records and HYBE Labels, who are the joint labels behind the creation of KATSEYE.

The song and music video were met with quite mixed reactions. While some people enjoyed the Y2K/Bratz vibes of the music video, others complained that the song was way too short and didn’t allow the members to properly showcase their vocal abilities.

Additionally, there were further complaints that member Manon is often unseen due to her positioning in the choreography.

the choreographer needs their ass beat, cause how did everyone switch positions here but manon, we gonna need to fix this immediately 😭 cause her performing this song means we won’t see her at all.#Katseye
pic.twitter.com/TZJh9ZXg7V

— ☁️ (@txtiyyih) June 28, 2024

Still others thought that the music video overall seemed tacky and low-budget, and that the members’ talents are being wasted with this being their introduction to the music industry.

Finally, some commenters couldn’t help but notice some of the “upskirt” shots of the members during the music video. While none of the members were actually wearing skirts, the angle still felt uncomfortable to many and is just another example in a long list of questionable and overly-sexualized choices that HYBE Labels has been making for some of their girl groups (notably those with underage members) lately.