On April 4, 2025, HYBE LABEL announced an exciting new project by releasing a casting call for a global co-ed pop group through their YouTube channel. This initiative, a collaboration with popular YouTuber Alan Chikin Chow, aims to blend the realms of scripted content and music, with the new group set to feature three male and three female members.
Notably, while the concept of the group is innovative, it was the intro video that sparked considerable discussion among fans. The preview incorporated concert footage from BTS, leading to significant backlash from the ARMYs, BTS’s dedicated fanbase.
The teaser prominently featured clips from BTS alongside other renowned bands, inviting aspiring talent to participate in auditions for the new project. Following this release, many fans took to social media to voice their concerns and dissatisfaction. Critics suggested that the inclusion of BTS clips implied that the new group’s success could somehow replicate that of BTS, which many found disrespectful.
“Leave bts alone. They’re not a promotional tool. They’re not even related to hybe America.”
Many fans questioned the rationale behind using BTS in the promotional materials for a group not associated with BIGHIT MUSIC, BTS’s home label. Comments ranged from calls for HYBE to prioritize support for existing members of BTS over launching new ventures to accusations of exploiting BTS’s success to bolster a nascent group.
“Wait one minute. First video of those idols then ‘ready to become a global phenomenon’ appear, and after that video of ARMYs at concert. What was the meaning behind all this? Has the preparation for ‘Next BTS’ started again? BTS is under BIGHIT, why Hybe using BTS & ARMY?”an X user wrote.
“Everything would’ve been fine had they not used BTS’s clip right before going ‘HYBE’s K-Pop methodology.’ Get the business perspective but it’s distasteful considering BTS has never been a formula.”Another fan commented.
“Why are BTS being used for the promo? And what’s K-Pop method? BTS reached the top through their own hard work, personality, and musicality. No one can replicate BTS to create another BTS.”A person commented.
This sentiment reflects a broader concern that highlights a recurrent pattern within HYBE’s promotional strategies, often leveraging BTS’s monumental success to market new projects.
“It’s always HYBE using BTS to promote other groups instead of promoting BTS themselves. We really couldn’t care less about all of these ‘global’ groups.”A fan expressed.
“Can HYBE stop using BTS’s name to promote their other groups? You’re making this new group alright, but you did NOT make BTS stop taking credits.”Another X user wrote.
“HYBE, you will never have the next BTS. For once, promote groups without including BTS everywhere.”A netizen remarked.
Insight Into HYBE America x AU’s New Co-Ed Pop Group
The forthcoming group is part of the HYBE America x AU initiative, which merges HYBE’s artist development strategies with Chow’s specialized skills in scripted storytelling. This innovative group will be showcased through a dedicated YouTube series.
Described as an exciting blend of music, drama, and performance, the project will unfold within a fictional arts academy. The group is set to feature six members—three males and three females—selected through a public global audition open to all aspiring artists, regardless of nationality.
Alan Chikin Chow, renowned for his viral teen comedy series “Alan’s Universe,”will take on the role of executive producer alongside Scooter Braun, CEO of HYBE America, and James Shin, the label’s president of film and television.
Viewers can expect to follow the fictional journey of hopeful idols as they form their own band after facing rejection from traditional pop programs. The audition process encourages artists aged 18 to 28 from all backgrounds to submit a brief video showcasing their singing, dancing, or acting talents on YouTube Shorts, using the hashtag #HYBEAMERICAxAU.
Successful candidates will receive feedback directly from Alan Chikin Chow on their audition videos. Those who progress past the initial screening will be contacted for a callback, marking their potential move towards joining this new pop group.
As of April 2025, it’s worth noting that five members of BTS are serving in the military, with Jin and j-hope having recently completed their service, while the remainder are expected to conclude their duties by June 2025.