TikTok has crowned its newest global music star — and it’s a group to watch. Rising pop girl group Katseye has been named TikTok’s Global Artist of the Year in the platform’s 2025 Year in Music report, after a whirlwind year of record-breaking viral success. The Los Angeles-based ensemble, which only debuted last year, racked up over 30 billion views on TikTok in 2025 as fans created some 12 million videos using their music. That massive engagement put Katseye at the top of TikTok’s year-end charts, beating out mega-stars and K-pop idols to claim the crown.
Katseye’s meteoric rise from social media sensation to mainstream contender has been stunningly fast. Their single “Gabriela” sparked a huge dance trend on TikTok — even propelling the catchy track onto global music charts and earning the group a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. Meanwhile, their debut EP Beautiful Chaos hit No. 4 on the Billboard 200 albums chart this year, proving Katseye’s appeal extends far beyond the app. Not bad for a band formed in 2023 through a joint venture between K-pop powerhouse HYBE and Geffen Records, bringing together members from the US, South Korea, Switzerland and the Philippines.
Upon learning of the TikTok honor, the members of Katseye were quick to thank their fervent fanbase (affectionately dubbed the “EYEKONS”). “We had an unforgettable year on TikTok, and it was all because of the EYEKONS who showed up for us every single day,” the group said in a statement. “You turned our songs, our moments, and our chaos into something truly global, and we are so grateful for this community.” The TikTok accolade caps an incredible year for Katseye — one that saw them break barriers and go viral worldwide. In fact, in a surprise twist, TikTok’s most-played song of 2025 wasn’t a new hit at all, but Connie Francis’s 1962 classic “Pretty Little Baby,” which found new life on the platform thanks to a viral trend. But when it comes to the year’s top artist, a new generation is leading the way: Katseye’s blend of infectious pop, global fandom and TikTok savvy made them the platform’s definitive breakout of 2025.
