Major cooperation and music labels Hybe x Geffen released a statement on Weverse announcing KATSEYE leader Sophia Laforteza’s temporary hiatus from the group on Aug. 7, making her the second member of the group to do so following Manon Bannerman earlier this year.
According to the label’s statement, Laforteza will temporarily step away from all group activities to prioritize her mental well-being and physical health in accordance with the advice of medical professionals.
HxG detailed Laforteza’s eagerness and commitment to return to group activities while emphasizing that a break is necessary to ensure that the singer is in the best condition to return. “While Sophia herself is eager to perform alongside her members, the health, safety, and long-term well-being of our artists will always remain our highest priority,” the label stated.
HxG did not release a set timeline for Laforteza’s return, instead they detailed that her condition and readiness to resume group activities as well as promotional content will be reassessed in September. The update on Laforteza’s condition will follow KATSEYE’s Wildworld Tour, which is set to kick off Aug. 31, 2026.
Laforteza released a statement on her personal Instagram, “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.” She continued, “I promise I’m going to work as hard as I can to get through this, heal properly, and come back stronger.”
As KATSEYE’s leader, Laforteza played an incredibly significant role in guiding the group since its debut, often serving as the voice representing all six members in interviews, performances and public appearances. An article written by fashion magazine Allure detailed this, praising the member, writing she “often speaks for the group and is also the liaison with management about matters large and small, creative and practical. It’s an important role in the K-pop system, and Sophia seems like a natural. Her bond with her ‘sisters,’ as she calls them, and her leadership qualities come across loud and clear.”
Fellow group members offered Laforteza similar praise, asserting that she often takes on an almost maternal role as one of the eldest in the group.
A press update from Preview shared member testimony, quoting lead dancer Daniela Avanzini, “Sophia is the best leader ever. She always takes care of us and makes sure that we’re doing okay. And whenever we’re upset or frustrated with something, we always go to her, and she always helps us.”
Lead singer Lara Raj also said, “I feel like she is our comfort person, for sure! You are the mom the group.”
With Laforteza temporarily stepping away from group activities, Raj has taken a more prominent role as leader in interviews, performances and other promotional appearances, establishing the group’s outward support for Laforteza while she remains on hiatus.
Laforteza’s constant acknowledgment from fellow members as well as HxG starkly contrasts the treatment of Bannerman following her own temporary hiatus announced on Weverse in February.
Under similar pretenses as Laforteza, HxG stated that Bannerman’s hiatus was for the member to focus on her mental and physical wellbeing. While Laforteza remains publicly recognized, featured in promotional content and established as KATSEYE’s leader despite her absence, Bannerman has remained largely absent from KATSEYE branding as a whole, with the member being excluded from KATSEYE’S “PINKY UP” promotional content, brand deals and KATSEYE’s latest album “WILD” following her hiatus.
Bannerman’s continued absence and removal from promotional activities coupled with the drastic lack of acknowledgement from HxG and the other members fuels speculation among Eyekons, the KATSEYE fanbase, that Bannerman might have quietly departed from the group; however, neither HxG nor Bannerman herself has publicly confirmed her departure.
