Cinema VinesLos Angeles, Oct. 18 – Global girl group KATSEYE’s leader, Sophia Laforteza, has announced that she will be stepping away from promotional activities to focus on her mental health, according to a joint statement from Hybe and Geffen. The South Korean and American labels said the decision follows extensive medical consultation and that Laforteza will need “dedicated time for extended rest and ongoing care” to recover fully.
In the statement, Hybe and Geffen expressed regret that Sophia will be unable to join upcoming promotional events, but confirmed that she remains eager to return to the stage with her fellow members Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung. The companies said her condition will be reassessed in September, with further updates to be shared with fans at that time.
Laforteza also posted a heartfelt message on her personal Instagram, saying the decision “breaks her heart” and that she loves performing and sharing moments with fans. She added that taking care of her mind and body now will help her continue doing what she loves in the long run, and thanked supporters for their ongoing encouragement of KATSEYE during her absence.
The announcement comes just days before the worldwide premiere of KATSEYE’s first documentary, “KATSEYE: WILD HEARTS,” on Wednesday, and the release of the group’s third EP, “WILD,” on Aug. 14. Laforteza is the second member of the Los Angeles‑based multinational pop group to take a temporary hiatus for mental‑health reasons; Manon Bannerman’s break was announced on Weverse on Feb. 20.
KATSEYE, formed in 2023 after finalists of Hybe and Geffen’s survival‑style competition “The Debut: Dream Academy” were chosen to debut together, blends K‑pop training with Western pop influences. The group’s diverse lineup—members from the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland and the U.S.—has already earned international attention with hits such as “Touch,” “Gnarly” and the Grammy‑nominated “Gabriela.” The name KATSEYE is derived from the chrysoberyl gemstone. Hybe did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on the situation.
