The origins of GIRLSET trace directly back to the summer of 2023, when JYP Entertainment founder J.Y. Park partnered with Republic Records chief Monte Lipman to launch America 2 Korea (A2K). The reality audition program toured across North America, identifying young vocalists and dancers to undergo the rigorous, multi-faceted training protocols honed in Seoul. The surviving contestants debuted under the name VCHA in January 2024 with the single "Girls of the Year."
The rollout began with substantial institutional backing. The group opened for Twice during their world tour stops at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and secured appearances at Lollapalooza. Beneath the surface, the promotional cadence faltered. The music video releases delivered modest streaming figures compared to industry peers, and the group's adolescent, bubblegum identity struggled to generate sustained traction across western radio and digital spaces.
By late spring 2024, unexpected absences disrupted the group's momentum. JYP announced that the youngest member, Kaylee, would take a temporary medical hiatus to focus on her health. Months passed without clear timelines for her return. As appearances evaporated and scheduled festival sets were quietly canceled, industry insiders began anticipating a structural reorganization behind closed doors.
