HYBE and Geffen Records have launched their second global girl group named Saint Satine. This announcement follows the finale of the Japanese survival show, World Scout: The Final Piece, which revealed 16-year-old Tobi Sakura as the final member of the group.
Formation of Saint Satine
Saint Satine consists of four multinational members: Emily Kelavos from the USA, Lexie Levin from Sweden, Samara Siqueira from Brazil, and Tobi Sakura from Japan. The group was formed through a partnership between HYBE and Geffen Records, which started in 2021 to create culturally diverse musical acts.
Saint Satine Members
- Emily Kelavos: At 20 years old, she is recognized for her exceptional dance skills and stage presence, having competed in the popular reality show, The Debut: Dream Academy.
- Lexie Levin: A 21-year-old from Sweden, she is renowned for her songwriting and music production abilities, indicating a prominent role in the group’s creative direction.
- Samara Siqueira: A 20-year-old from Brazil, she gained attention for her delicate vocals on Dream Academy, finishing seventh in the competition.
- Tobi Sakura: The youngest member at 16, she was chosen from over 14,000 applicants on World Scout: The Final Piece, showcasing her talent among fierce competition.
The Path to Success
The World Scout: The Final Piece project kicked off in August 2025, confirming the three members in succession before the finale determined Sakura’s inclusion. The show received significant media attention and featured a panel of esteemed Japanese entertainment figures.
Initial Reactions
Saint Satine’s official name was announced during the finale, which sparked mixed reactions from fans who were anticipating the working title, Prelude. While “Saint” symbolizes outstanding musicality, “Satine” reflects an elegant and sophisticated image.
Debut Performance
The group’s debut occurred on May 12, with their performance of “PARTY b4 the PARTY,” alongside their second track “WE RIDE,” launched on various streaming platforms. While many praised their performance, some expressed discomfort regarding Sakura’s age, raising concerns about her being in the group with older members.
Saint Satine’s Strategic Advantage
Saint Satine’s formation follows the model established with HYBE’s first girl group, KATSEYE. This previous group achieved several notable accolades, including Grammy nominations and impressive chart rankings. By integrating a member from Japan and utilizing a local streaming platform, HYBE aims to expand its reach into the lucrative Japanese market.
The Future of HYBE and Geffen
As Saint Satine begins its journey, KATSEYE remains at the forefront of HYBE’s endeavors despite facing challenges. Current reports suggest uncertainty surrounding member Manon Bannerman, who is on hiatus but is set to appear on television in Germany.
This strategic shift and formation of Saint Satine signify HYBE and Geffen’s commitment to breaking cultural barriers through music and performance.
