HYBE America is teaming up with one of YouTube’s most popular channels, Alan’s Universe. (Image courtesy of HYBE America)
LOS ANGELES, April 4 (Korea Bizwire) — HYBE America is teaming up with one of YouTube’s most popular channels, Alan’s Universe, to launch a new pop group aimed at a global Gen Z audience, the company announced Friday.
The collaboration marks a significant strategic move for HYBE America, which has entered into a global partnership with Alan Chikin Chow, the creator and storyteller behind Alan’s Universe. The channel, known for its youth-centered web dramas about love, friendship, and values, boasts nearly 89 million subscribers.
Together, they will establish a new label, HYBE AMERICA x AU, blending music and scripted drama. Chow will serve as chief producer and co-CEO of the label, alongside HYBE America’s Head of Film and TV James Shin and CEO Scooter Braun.
As part of the initiative, the label will hold a global audition for aspiring artists aged 18 to 28. Hopefuls can apply by uploading singing or dancing videos on YouTube Shorts using the hashtag #HYBEAMERICAxAU. There are no nationality restrictions.
Selected talents will undergo a training program in the U.S. that merges HYBE’s K-pop development system with Western music production. The resulting group will debut through an original Alan’s Universe series, integrating storytelling with performance.
Chow expressed optimism about the partnership: “The passionate global fanbase of Alan’s Universe and HYBE America’s extraordinary musical expertise will create a powerful synergy,” he said. “We’re building a new label that will inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.”
The collaboration signals HYBE America’s continued push into cross-platform storytelling and global talent development following a year of strategic expansion in 2024. The new group is expected to debut sometime in 2026.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
