At the MTV Video Music Awards 2025 held on September 8 at UBS Arena in New York, HYBE’s rookie girl group KATSEYE emerged as one of the most talked-about acts of the night.
The group performed their hits Gnarly and Gabriela during the Pre-Show, delivering flawless choreography, powerful vocals, and high-energy stage presence. The performance reached its peak when fans loudly sang along to Gnarly, creating a festival-like atmosphere that set the tone for the evening.
International outlets such as Elle and Harper’s Bazaar praised KATSEYE, noting that they brought “global energy that goes far beyond a debut performance, showcasing both identity and ambition.”
Despite it being their first time on a major international stage, KATSEYE radiated confidence. Dressed in bold black crop tops and shorts accented with gold, silver, and red accessories, the members commanded the spotlight with charisma and sharp synchronization.
Their performance earned them not only roaring fan reactions but also two major nominations:
- MTV Push Performance of the Year (with Touch)
- Best Group (alongside Backstreet Boys, Evanescence, and Stray Kids)
In the end, KATSEYE took home the MTV Push Performance of the Year award — a significant breakthrough that critics believe will propel them to even greater success at future VMAs.
The group’s rising influence has led to direct comparisons with BLACKPINK. Elle and Harper’s Bazaar remarked that just as BLACKPINK used Coachella 2019 and the VMAs 2020 to cement their global dominance, KATSEYE is now following a similar trajectory.
On social media, fans have begun calling KATSEYE the “new generation BLACKPINK”, praising their stage precision, multicultural appeal, and undeniable star quality. One viewer commented: “KATSEYE brings the same explosive energy BLACKPINK had when they first went global — but with their own unique flavor.”

With media and public sentiment aligned, KATSEYE is increasingly seen not just as promising rookies, but as a group with the potential to inherit BLACKPINK’s throne on the global stage.
From world-class performances and stylish charisma to their first VMA award, KATSEYE has proven that they’re not a fleeting trend but a powerful force in the international music scene.
Sources: Elle,Harper’s Bazaar

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