KATSEYE Singer Sophia Laforteza Steps Away – KATSEYE frontwoman Sophia Laforteza will be taking a temporary leave of absence from all group promotional activities to focus on her mental health and overall wellness. The news was announced by HYBE x Geffen on August 7, explaining that Sophia had been advised to take a long rest and care by medical professionals.
She also added a message to her fans saying it was a hard decision for her to make as she highly values performing. However, she stressed the necessity of taking care of her health so that she can continue to pursue her passion in the long run.
HYBE, Geffen Announce Extended Hiatus
“Sophia will not participate in the upcoming promotional activities of KATSEYE as she focuses on her recovery,” HYBE and Geffen said in a joint statement. Her condition is due to be reviewed again in September which means the current break is temporary and not an announcement that she is leaving the group for good.
“Sophia’s absence will affect a number of scheduled appearances, including upcoming promotional events related to KATSEYE’s growing 2026 activities. Sophia will be given the recommended time by her medical team and the group will fulfilll its commitments.
KATSEYE Heads For Second Member Hiatus
Sophia’s break comes just a few months after fellow KATSEYE member Manon Bannerman also stepped back from activities to focus on her health and well-being. Sophia becomes the second member of the six-member group to take a health-related break in 2026.
KATSEYE has been growing rapidly around the world and the case has been widely noticed. The group was created through HYBE and Geffen’s 2023 competition series The Debut: Dream Academy, and has gained a large global fanbase since making their official debut.
KATSEYE Maintains Promotions Without Sophia
KATSEYE is expected to continue with its routine activities in Sophia’s temporary absence. The group is preparing for the release of their new EP WILD and also promoting their documentary project KATSEYE: WILD HEARTS.
The remaining members will continue to represent KATSEYE for promotional engagements. Fans have been very supportive of Sophia’s announcement, with many telling her to take care of her health and not rush back on the stage.
Sophia says health is most important
Sophia’s message has also brought to light the growing conversation around mental health and the pressures performers face working under demanding schedules. ‘She is taking meaningful time away from her professional responsibilities and has taken medical advice to do so.
“It wasn’t an easy decision to step back, but taking care of my health is important to my ability to perform in the future,” the singer said. HYBE and Geffen request that everyone respect her privacy as she rests and recovers.
Sources
- Reuters – Sophia Laforteza’s temporary hiatus from KATSEYE and medical recommendation coverage
- Variety – Cover Sophia taking a break to focus on mental health and wellness.
- People – More from Sophia’s statement and the HYBE x Geffen announcement.
- LA Times – Sophia’s breakup and how it ties in with what KATSEYE has in the pipeline.
