“Mixed Reactions from Fans: Bang Si-hyuk and KATSEYE Feature Together in Magazine Photoshoot”

On October 7, 2024, the prestigious media publication The New Yorker released a visual feature showcasing Bang Si-hyuk alongside the K-pop group KATSEYE, in an exclusive interview titled *The K-pop King*. This piece discusses how Bang, the mastermind behind BTS, aims to replicate his idol creation formula in the United States. The pictorial sparked a variety of responses from online users.

During the photoshoot, members Sophia, Manon, Daniela, Lara, Megan, and Yoonchae were photographed in various dynamic poses, while Bang Si-hyuk notably positioned himself at the edge of the studio, distinctly separate from the female idols. Some viewers expressed dissatisfaction with his presence and shared their disappointment. Contrarily, others defended him, leading to one user on X tweeting:

“People are asking why he’s there!! He created them… that’s his group lmaoo I don’t like him, but y’all are hilarious. He’s in the U.S. and doesn’t even care about this silly debate, I’m pretty sure lol.”

Critics of the latest pictorial suggested cropping Bang Si-hyuk out of the images altogether, noting his position at the edge of the photo.

“Who invited Bang? Get him out of the frame. I’m so proud of the girls; their Netflix documentary is fantastic,”one fan commented.

“Why did this guy ruin their group photo?”another user added.

“Thank goodness they positioned him on the edge; he’s easy to crop out,”a user remarked.

On the flip side, many users praised the collaboration between Bang Si-hyuk and KATSEYE, claiming they are making history and set to take the K-pop scene by storm. Supporters pointed out that without his vision, the girl group might not even exist.

“Wow, Bang Sihyuk and KATSEYE in *The New Yorker*? That’s iconic and oh-so-classy! I can’t wait to see how their collaboration is reflected in this feature,”another fan stated.

“If it weren’t for Bang Sihyuk, do you really think these girls would be on the cover of *The New Yorker*? All the haters need a reality check,”a supporter expressed.

“The *New Yorker* piece likely illustrates how Bang Sihyuk’s HYBE, a leader in K-pop’s international success, and KATSEYE are not merely participants; they’re redefining the industry,”an X user commented.

Overview of KATSEYE

KATSEYE originated from the survival reality show *Dream Academy*, produced in partnership with South Korea’s HYBE and the American label Geffen Records. The group officially launched with their single “Debut”in June 2024, consisting of six talented members: Sophia, Manon, Lara, Daniela, Yoonchae, and Megan.

Following their debut, the extended play SIS (Soft Is Strong) was released on August 16, 2024, distributed by HYBE UMG and Geffen Records. This project features contributions from well-known producers, such as Ryan Tedder, Hitman Bang, and Cashmere Cat.

In addition, on August 21, 2024, a documentary entitled *Pop Star Academy: Katseye* premiered, further showcasing the group’s journey.

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