HYBE India is set to launch nationwide auditions for a new girl group, inviting young female talents to participate from March 31 to July 31, 2026.
HYBE has previously dominated global charts with boy groups and girl groups before expanding into India. Now, HYBE India is taking a significant step by launching nationwide auditions for a new girl group, aimed at showcasing the diverse talents of young Indian women.
The auditions will be open to girls born between 2005 and 2011 and will take place from March 31 to July 31, 2026, across 10 cities including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Pune. This initiative invites talents in various fields such as vocals, rap, dance, acting, and modeling.
Damien Woochang Lee, CEO of HYBE India, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “India has never lacked talent or ambition – what’s been missing is a consistent pathway to the global stage. This audition is where that process begins.” He further elaborated on the vision behind the auditions, saying, “What we are building is that bridge: a system that allows us to nurture artistes with intention, and to be seen, heard, and understood beyond borders.”
The campaign aims to promote the theme of ‘Harmony in Diversity,’ focusing on telling authentic stories of Indian women. This reflects HYBE’s long-term commitment to the Indian market, which was solidified with the establishment of HYBE India in June 2025 as part of a strategy to localize K-pop production.
Auditions will include both online submissions and in-person rounds, ensuring accessibility for all interested participants. The initiative is expected to gain further visibility through partnerships with major brands like Samsung and H&M.
Lee Woo-chang also noted that the decision to focus on a girl group was based on local research indicating a strong desire among young Indian women for relatable artists. This strategic move aligns with HYBE’s broader goal of connecting with diverse audiences around the world.
As the audition process unfolds, observers are keen to see how it will impact the Indian music scene and whether it will successfully bridge the gap between local talent and the global stage. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific selection criteria and training processes that will follow the auditions.
With this initiative, HYBE India aims not only to discover new talent but also to foster a vibrant cultural exchange that resonates with both Indian and international audiences.
