KATSEYE member Sophia Laforteza has sent shockwaves among the fandom as she announced her decision to temporarily step away from the group to focus on her mental health and well-being, making her the second member of the global girl group to take a hiatus this year.HYBE x Geffen Records announced that the Filipino-American singer will be “temporarily unable to participate in upcoming promotional activities.” They went on to add, “We understand how much EYEKONS were looking forward to seeing Sophia on stage, but it is imperative that her mental health and wellness are prioritised.”Although Laforteza is allegedly eager to return to performing alongside her bandmates, the group’s management said “the health, safety, and long-term well-being of our artists will always remain our highest priority.”The label also confirmed that fans will receive an update about Laforteza’s condition in September.
Sophia Laforteza says decision to step away ‘wasn’t easy’
Laforteza addressed her fans in a separate Instagram statement that read, “Making this decision wasn’t easy, but I’m learning that health has to come first. I’m realizing that if I don’t take care of my mind and body now, I won’t be able to keep doing what I love the most for so long.””It means more to me than I could ever say. I promise I’m going to work as hard as I can to get through this, heal properly, and come back stronger.”
Second KATSEYE member to take a break this year
Laforteza’s hiatus comes less than six months after fellow KATSEYE member Manon Bannerman also stepped away from group activities to focus on her health and well-being. She has yet to return to the group, although the label has previously indicated that the door remains open for her comeback. The 23-year-old Swiss singer subsequently reassured fans that she was “healthy” and “taking care of myself.”The timing of Laforteza’s decision is raising eyebrows as it comes just ahead of the release of their new “WILD” next week. Sophia was also absent from the premiere of their new ‘Wild Hearts’ documentary earlier this week due to an alleged ‘illness’.
Fans react to Sophia Laforteza’s hiatus
Fans have raised their suspicions about the sudden hiatus this year, with many taking to Twitter to share their thoughts. KATSEYE was formed in 2023 through the HYBE and Geffen Records global girl-group project and has since established itself as one of the most prominent new international pop acts.
