Released on August 21, the Netflix docuseries Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE documents the full process, from selection and training to debut, of the pop-star hopefuls who appeared on The Debut: Dream Academy, the competitive reality show that ultimately led to the debut of global girl group KATSEYE. The documentary closely follows both the would-be artists as they train and live together, as well as the staff of HYBE X Geffen Records (HXG), documenting the detailed process that went into creating the new girl group. We spoke to Missy Paramo, senior program manager for T&D under HXG, who developed a deep connection with the KATSEYE members and played a pivotal role in the series, about what went into filming the documentary, a behind-the-scenes scoop on the T&D process, and her thoughts on the KATSEYE members.
Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE documents the full process of Dream Academy, from selection of the trainees to debut. What was the atmosphere like during the approximately two years while the documentary was being shot?
Missy Paramo: The crew was constantly filming vérité, which initially made everyone uncomfortable with the ever-present cameras. Everyone involved felt vulnerable because this project was groundbreaking, and the timeline was far shorter than those for typical K-pop group formations. Letting Nadia Hallgren and her crew into the intimate world of T&D felt risky, as we weren’t sure what would or wouldn’t make it into the final documentary. However, over time, both the T&D team and the trainees grew to trust the crew. We understood that for the documentary to truly resonate with viewers, both the trainees and T&D staff needed to be open, vulnerable, and honest in front of the cameras. This required a leap of faith, trusting that Nadia would faithfully tell our story. It meant granting her and the crew access to not only the intricate workings of the training and development program but also our personal lives. Despite the intensity, the crew was incredibly patient with all of us. They respected our boundaries while still capturing the most emotional, stressful, and intense moments of the project.
Taking a K-pop-influenced T&D system and using it as the basis for training in the US couldn’t have been easy. What were the core principles underpinning the overall structure of the program and the selection process for the instructors?
Missy Paramo: When developing our T&D system, we conducted extensive research on similar programs in the US, such as collegiate athletics and Olympic training programs. Through this, we realized that the foundation of our system needed to be built on clear rules and well-defined goals for the trainees. We designed a rigorous training program aimed at developing not only their skills as artists but also their growth as individuals. Besides, establishing a system in Los Angeles provided the significant advantage of accessing top-tier instructors in the industry. However, we needed to find niche instructors who were not only experienced but also open to integrating insights from the Korean T&D system with the development of our unique American approach. Each of our instructors brings years of experience working with major names in pop music, equipping them with the knowledge of the skill level, work ethic, and star quality necessary to elevate our trainees to the standards of current pop icons.
With such an intense practice regimen, the trainees in the documentary sometimes faced considerable pressure. Was it difficult for such a culturally diverse group of trainees to fully embrace the T&D system?
Missy Paramo: T&D earned the trainees’ trust by being present for them constantly—day in and day out, at all hours. We were committed to providing whatever they needed to stay focused on their goals, whether that meant offering physical or mental health support, or giving them time away from the studio. Our efforts were met with trust and dedication from the group of young women cast for this project. Our goal was to rapidly help every trainee reach their full potential. It was important for the teaching staff to provide constructive feedback in a way that motivated rather than discouraged. They genuinely believed in the T&D program and trusted the process. As a result, they reaped the benefits, with noticeable improvements in their skill sets. The trainees fostered an environment of respect, hard work, and discipline because they understood that this dedication was the key to earning a spot in the global girl group. Many trainees were so determined to improve that they would dedicate their limited free time to practicing on their own. Attendance wasn’t mandatory at the end of each day—it was up to the trainees to show up, put in the work, and take ownership of their growth. This self-motivation became a defining factor in their development and success.
The documentary takes an in-depth look at mental health, including in scenes where the trainees undergo group counseling. Why was this aspect specifically brought into focus?
Missy Paramo: Mental health care was a cornerstone of our entire T&D program—a pillar we consistently prioritized. In today’s America, this generation is acutely aware of the critical role mental health plays in their success, and we’ve seen firsthand how neglecting it can derail even the most promising music careers. With this in mind, we made it a priority to keep our trainees mentally strong. We offered individual therapy with trained healthcare professionals for those who wanted it, while also conducting group therapy sessions led by our resident psychologist to support the trainees collectively. We explored diverse therapeutic methods, including art and music therapy, to find what resonated best with the trainees. The specialists were responsible for supporting trainees in their personal development as young adults while pursuing their dreams. Furthermore, we helped them adjust to life in LA and ensured they had time away from the studio to unwind and enjoy life outside the competitive environment. This mental break allowed them to embrace being young adults living in Los Angeles.
The sense of sisterhood that the trainees develop throughout everything they go through stands out as documentary’s most valuable takeaway.
Missy Paramo: The trainees shared a unique bond akin to a sisterhood, forged through their shared experiences that few others could truly understand. They spent extensive time together, some living under the same roof. Despite the intense competition, the experience was profoundly life-changing. The sisterhood shared by the KATSEYE members is truly unbreakable. It’s a bond built on the kind of trust you can only find between sisters—one where each person knows they can count on the others no matter what. This deep sense of reliance is the glue that holds the team together. They always act with each other’s best interests at heart, and that trust shines through both on and off camera. It’s this genuine connection that not only strengthens their chemistry on screen but also draws in audiences, leaving them wishing to be part of such a powerful sisterly bond.
You spent a long time witnessing the progress that the KATSEYE members made through the T&D process. How do you feel each of the members of the group has grown?
Missy Paramo: As emerging artists, they are continuously pushing themselves to prove their talent and build a deep connection with their fan base. The work ethic and discipline instilled in them through the program have become critical to their success. First of all, what I’m most proud of in Daniela is her growing self-awareness. While she entered the program with a strong skill set, Daniela has worked diligently to refine her abilities, evolving into an elite dancer, singer, and performer. Her maturity and capacity for self-reflection are truly admirable.
While Lara’s confidence made a strong impact on the program, it was her positivity that truly inspired the trainees around her. An exceptionally talented vocalist, Lara had to work extra hard to quickly improve her dance skills, especially since she joined the program later than the others. Despite the long hours and intense workload, Lara has been a driving force in keeping the KATSEYE members motivated.
Unlike many of the other members, Manon didn’t come from a background in competitive sports or the arts, which made the T&D process especially challenging for her. Even in difficult moments, she never gave up. Manon has consistently worked to enhance her skill set and professionalism, and since becoming a group member, she has truly turned a corner. She’s now deeply committed to being a supportive teammate and a caring sister to her bandmates.
When we first met Megan, she was reserved and lacked the energy of a standout performer. However, during the T&D program, Megan truly came into her own, gradually building her confidence. Having worked in the industry since she was young, Megan brought a strong sense of professionalism and dedication, which helped her continuously improve. Watching her blossom into a captivating performer and a valuable teammate for KATSEYE has been a beautiful journey.
Sophia has remarkable leadership abilities. She’s a natural-born leader, but like any leader, she needed time to refine her style and abilities. Sophia worked tirelessly to improve, dedicating time to self-practice to ensure her growth. She has become a pillar of strength within KATSEYE, known for her calm, level-headed approach in challenging situations and her dedication to inclusivity. Sophia is committed, responsible, and dependable—qualities that make her the ideal leader for a group of young women chasing their dreams.
Lastly, it’s inspiring to see how, at such a young age, Yoonchae left her home country to chase her dreams in a place where she didn’t even know the language. Yoonchae has worked tirelessly to learn English and immerse herself in American culture because she’s determined to connect with her fans on a deeper level. Despite being the youngest member, she carries herself with immense professionalism, and I’m continuously impressed by how well she’s adapted to the rigorous demands of being an artist.