Following the massive success of KATSEYE, the powerhouse partnership between HYBE and Geffen Records has officially unveiled their second global girl group: SAINT SATINE. Emerging from a multi-year talent search, the group’s identity is built on a duality of “SAINT”, representing commanding musicality and charisma, and “SATINE,” a nod to softness, refinement, and elegance.

May 14, 2026
Photo: @saintsatine via Instagram

May 14, 2026

Photo: @saintsatine via Instagram

How was SAINT SATINE formed?

For members Emily, Lexie and Samara, the road to SAINT SATINE began long before their official name was revealed. After standing out as fan favourites in the 2023 competition series The Debut: Dream Academy, the trio was announced in August 2025 to continue their development under the temporary name “Prelude”. 

While their chemistry was undeniable, the search for one final member was still underway. This journey was documented through World Scout: The Final Piece, a 12-episode audition series aired on Japan’s ABEMA. The judging panel featured a prestigious lineup of industry veterans, including renowned performance director Son Sungdeuk and celebrated vocal mentors such as Lauren Jauregui. 

Who are the members of SAINT SATINE?

Members
May 9, 2026
Photo: @saintsatine via instagram

May 9, 2026

Photo: @saintsatine via instagram

Emily Kelavos

SAINT
May 13, 2026
Photo: @emilykelavos via Instagram

May 13, 2026

Photo: @emilykelavos via Instagram

Emily Kelavos, the first name carved into the SAINT SATINE lineup, is a 20-year-old dance machine from Dallas, Texas, quite literally born for the spotlight. A decorated competitive dancer long before stepping foot on a HYBE stage, Emily claimed the prestigious title of “Teen Female Dancer of the Year” at the 2021 Streetz Dance Nationals. From there, her professional credentials only sharpened — most notably when she commanded the Coachella 2025 stage as a background dancer for global pop sensation XG. Despite her immense talent, Emily’s journey to stardom wasn’t without its heartbreak. After fighting her way to the live finale in November 2023, she finished in 9th place, narrowly missing the KATSEYE lineup. Now, as a member of SAINT SATINE, Emily has finally claimed her rightful place centre stage.

Samara Siqueira

SAINT
May 13, 2026
Photo: @samisiqueiraa via Instagram

May 13, 2026

Photo: @samisiqueiraa via Instagram

The second member to be unveiled was Samara Siqueira, a 20-year-old powerhouse from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, whose lifelong dedication to performance brings a seasoned musicality to SAINT SATINE. Having honed her vocal craft since the age of five, Samara was already a natural in front of the lens by the time she entered Dream Academy, where she secured an impressive 7th-place finish. Fans may recognise her from her early work with The Bootcampers, starring in several of their music videos before pursuing her own spotlight. Beyond her commanding stage presence, the Brazilian star reveals a softer side — she’s a self-proclaimed bookworm and nature girl with an endearing love for Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon.

Lexie Levin

SAINT
May 13, 2026
Photo: @lexielinnealevin via Instagram

May 13, 2026

Photo: @lexielinnealevin via Instagram

Rounding out the original trio is Lexie Levin, the Stockholm-born singer-songwriter whose journey has become a testament to artistic integrity. A fan favourite from the original Dream Academy, the 21-year-old Swede made waves not just for her vocal prowess, but for her courageous decision to prioritise her well-being. After competing through the Autumn of 2023, Lexie famously chose to withdraw from the program, citing a mismatch between the high-pressure survival environment and her personal mental health goals. An avid music producer, she spends her downtime meticulously crafting original tracks. By joining SAINT SATINE, Lexie delivers a powerful message of resilience, vowing to remain unapologetically true to herself as she enters this new chapter.

Tobi Sakura

SAINT
May 13, 2026
Photo: @cherry_kura220 via Instagram

May 13, 2026

Photo: @cherry_kura220 via Instagram

Last but certainly not least comes the long-awaited final member: Tobi Sakura. At just 16 years old, the Japanese native brings youthful spark and technical precision to round out the trio. Once a devoted fan of her HYBE seniors LE SSERAFIM, Sakura’s transformation from admirer to idol has been nothing short of remarkable. Despite being the group’s newest addition, she’s already seamlessly woven herself into the fabric of SAINT SATINE.
Immediately following their official debut announcement, the members took to Weverse for their first livestream, greeting a global audience in both English and Japanese. In a moment that delighted fans worldwide, they revealed they’ve already moved into their new Los Angeles home—beginning their journey not just as bandmates, but as housemates navigating this new chapter together.

What are the positions of each SAINT SATINE member?

While official roles within SAINT SATINE have yet to be confirmed, the fandom is already deep in debate over how the group’s dynamic will take shape. Speculation regarding the leadership role is largely split between Emily and Lexie, with many pointing to Emily’s status as the group’s first member to be revealed, while others argue that Lexie’s songwriting background makes her the natural choice for the mantle. Samara is widely expected to play the part of a lead vocalist, whereas Sakura is rumoured to be stepping into a lead rapper role.

When will SAINT SATINE officially debut?

While the official debut date remains under wraps, HYBE x Geffen has confirmed it is slated for 2026. In the meantime, fans have been treated to a taste of their versatile sound with the digital release of their pre-debut tracks. The first, “PARTY b4 the PARTY,” is a high-energy anthem that the group debuted live during the World Scout finale. Contrasting this power is “WE RIDE,” a smoother, R&B-leaning track that features World Scout finalist Ayana, which highlights a more soulful, atmospheric sound.