KATSEYE dominates TikTok and is crowned 2025 Global Artist of the Year

The global phenomenon KATSEYE leads TikTok’s 2025 music recap, establishing itself as an undeniable force and turning trends into international successes.

TikTok has crowned KATSEYE as 2025 Global Artist of the Year, solidifying the group as one of the most influential musical phenomena of the moment. The platform released its highly anticipated annual roundup, featuring names such as ENHYPEN, Bad Bunny, Stray Kids, Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga. Yet it was KATSEYE who claimed the top spot thanks to an unprecedented impact.

Since their 2024 debut, KATSEYE has connected powerfully with the global audience. According to official TikTok data, their music surpassed 30 billion views and generated over 12 million creations throughout 2025, positioning them as one of the most viral groups of the decade. Their success extended beyond the platform: their track ‘Gabriela’ reached number 31, and their EP BEAUTIFUL CHAOS climbed to number 4 on the Billboard 200, a milestone that reinforces their rise within the music industry. The group is also competing at the Grammys, nominated for Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.

TikTok’s influence on music became even clearer with the unexpected resurgence of the 1962 classic ‘Pretty Little Baby’ by Connie Francis, which became the most popular song of the year both globally and in the United States. Other hits such as ‘Hold My Hand’ by Jess Glynne and ‘Anxiety’ by Doechii dominated the global rankings, showing how TikTok propels both new releases and rediscovered gems to massive audiences. Doechii also earned the title of Musical Trend of the Year, reinforcing the platform’s role in contemporary music discovery.

The annual recap additionally highlighted Taylor Swift as the most saved artist worldwide through the Add to Music App function, while sombr and Tate McRae led the top saved song and album categories. The recognition of EJAE as Songwriter of the Year closed a chapter that reflects the evolution of music consumption and TikTok’s cultural power in 2025.