The Sexualization Of KATSEYE, And Why It’s So “Problematic”

KATSEYE, the multinational girl group formed through HYBE and Geffen Records’ Dream Academy competition, has repeatedly drawn criticism for the sexualization of its members. Although sensual performances and controversial outfits aren’t new to K-Pop, many have deemed KATSEYE’s “sexualization,” in particular, as problematic.

KATEYE’s concepts have often leaned into revealing styling, suggestive choreography, and mature lyrical or sonic elements, prompting widespread debate about whether these choices are empowering artistic expression or something more troubling. Fans have also grown frustrated with KATSEYE’s direction, with some feeling that HYBE is squandering KATSEYE’s talent.

ngl i would gag if this were anyone else but katseye. ik their thing is over-sexualization and skimpy outfits but their audience mainly consists of 12 year olds

— ˚₊‧꒰ა 🌸 ໒꒱ ‧₊˚ (@chelslaysss) August 14, 2026

the literal children in the audience is why hybe’s over sexualization of katseye is problematic

— olivia ꕤ (@M4INTHINGS) August 15, 2026

the hyper sexualization of these girls needs to be studied. SIS katseye come back to me 🫠

— cadence 🦇 (@bewitchcadence) August 14, 2026

From fans to pop culture commentators, many critics keep circling back to two issues: KATSEYE’s young fanbase (children and teens), and the young members themselves. Part of the problem seems to be that HYBE is trying to appeal to two completely different audiences at the same time.

In the “Gnarly” era, performances and the music video featured tight outfits, provocative dance moves such as twerking, and background audio that a producer later confirmed was sampled from pornography. The track was performed at the Kids’ Choice Awards, an event aimed largely at children, which amplified the backlash.

Other songs have incorporated explicit innuendos delivered in high-pitched or baby-like voices, creating what some call a jarring mix of innocence and adult suggestion. Most recently, the group released “Hootie Frutti” from their EP WILD. The music video depicts overtly sexy choreography and camera work that focuses heavily on KATSEYE’s bodies, often cutting the members’ faces out of the shots.

This latest release quickly reignited debate over the group’s mature concept and whether it suits their young fanbase, with critics once again highlighting the suggestive styling and movement as continuing an established pattern of sexualization. Particular attention has focused on Yoonchae, the group’s youngest member, who is only 18 years old and was a minor during several earlier releases, including “Gnarly.”

Although stylists have frequently dressed her more modestly than her bandmates—opting for comparatively less revealing pieces—she has still participated fully in the same choreography, concepts, and promotional imagery, including the recent “Hootie Frutti” visuals.

As for their audience, KATSEYE has cultivated a significant following among teenagers and younger fans. Following the “Hootie Frutti” video release, fans questioned why a group whose fanbase skews so young continues to lean so heavily into mature, party-centric sensuality. Some have even gone so far as to accuse HYBE of “grooming.” 

For many, the sexualization feels insidious because it operates within a polished, aspirational package aimed at impressionable audiences, relying on the very youth and relatability that make the group appealing while simultaneously pushing adult boundaries.