Second KATSEYE member goes on hiatus

Sophia Laforteza, the leader of global girl group KATSEYE, is temporarily stepping back from promotional activities to focus on her mental health and well-being, Hybe and Geffen said on Friday in a joint statement posted on Hybe's fan-to-artist platform Weverse.
'We are very sorry to share that Sophia will be temporarily unable to participate in upcoming promotional activities,' the statement from the South Korean and American music companies said.
'Sophia has been receiving the utmost support, and following thorough consultations with medical professionals, it has been advised that she take dedicated time for extended rest and ongoing care to ensure a full recovery,' the statement added.
The companies said that despite the setback, Laforteza remains eager to return to performing alongside fellow members Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung.
Her condition will be reassessed in September, when further updates are expected to be shared with fans. Hybe did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for additional comment.
Laforteza also addressed the decision in a story posted on her personal Instagram page, saying that stepping away breaks her heart.
'You know how much I love being on stage, performing, and sharing these moments with you,' she added.
She noted that taking care of her mind and body now will enable her to continue doing what she loves. Laforteza also thanked fans for their support and asked them to continue supporting KATSEYE during her absence.
The announcement comes shortly before the worldwide premiere of the group's first documentary, 'KATSEYE: WILD HEARTS,' this upcoming Wednesday. The group is also preparing to release its third EP, 'WILD,' on August 14.
Laforteza is the second KATSEYE member to take a temporary hiatus for mental health and wellness reasons. Manon Bannerman's hiatus was announced through Weverse on February 20.
While fans have speculated about the reasons for Bannerman's absence, Hybe, Geffen and KATSEYE's members have not provided additional details about her condition or possible return.
KATSEYE is a Los Angeles-based multinational pop group known for combining K-pop's intensive training model with Western pop influences.
The group, whose members come from the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland and the United States, was formed in 2023. Its members were selected from the finalists of Hybe and Geffen's survival-style competition, 'The Debut: Dream Academy.'
KATSEYE later gained widespread international attention through singles including 'Touch,' 'Gnarly' and 'Gabriela,' with the latter earning the group a Grammy nomination.
The name KATSEYE is derived from the chrysoberyl gemstone known as cat's eye, representing the members' diverse talents and evolving artistry.— Reuters