(ANN/THE KOREA HERALD) – Latin American boy band Santos Bravos is seeking to expand beyond its regional base, aiming for global reach by blending Latin pop with the training and production system of K-pop.

Formed through a reality series under Hybe Corporation’s Latin America division, the five-member group — Drew, Alejandro, Kaue, Gabi and Kenneth — debuted in Mexico in October after undergoing K-pop-style training as part of the company’s “multihome, multigenre” strategy led by chairman Bang Si-hyuk.

Since debut, Santos Bravos has drawn attention for combining Latin music’s free-spirited style with K-pop’s polished production. The group is set to make its first appearances on Korean music shows this week.

Speaking at a press conference at Hybe headquarters in Seoul, the members outlined their ambitions.

“Rather than being known only in Latin America, our goal is to reach audiences around the world,” Gabi said, adding the group hopes to gain acceptance from Korean fans.

The group comprises members from the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Peru and Puerto Rico, blending Latin pop influences with K-pop precision — an approach they say shapes both their artistry and discipline.

Drew said the visit to Korea is both promotional and educational, citing senior K-pop acts such as BTS, Le Sserafim and Illit as inspirations.

“We’re here in Korea as students,” he said.

The group’s debut EP, Dual, released on March 13, reflects its dual identity. Kenneth said the six-track album presents contrasting sides of the group, pairing brighter, playful elements with darker, more intense tones.

It includes previously released tracks “0%” and “Kawasaki”, alongside two lead singles, “Mhm” and “Velocidade”.

“‘Velocidade’ is a powerful, fast-paced track that reflects our culture, while ‘Mhm’ is warmer and more comforting,” Drew said.

Kaue said “Velocidade”, which draws on Brazilian funk, holds personal significance.

“As a Brazilian, it’s special to share part of my culture,” he said.

Members described the group as bridging cultures, bringing Latin emotion into a K-pop framework.

“Our strength is our Latin essence,” Alejandro said.

They also highlighted the impact of K-pop’s training system on their development, particularly in discipline and work ethic.

Despite being early in its career, the group has gained international exposure, performing at major festivals and appearing as a guest at a concert by Shakira in Mexico.

Looking ahead, Santos Bravos aims to perform across its members’ home countries while building a global fanbase.

“We want to represent where we come from,” Kenneth said.

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin