Sophia Laforteza, the 23-year-old Filipino leader of the global girl group Katseye, is temporarily stepping back from promotional activities to focus on her mental health and well-being. This was announced on Friday, August 8, 2026, by Hybe and Geffen in a joint statement posted on Hybe's fan-to-artist platform Weverse.

The statement expressed regret over Sophia's inability to participate in upcoming promotions and noted that after thorough consultations with medical professionals, she has been advised to take dedicated time for extended rest and ongoing care to ensure a full recovery. Despite this, Laforteza remains eager to return to performing alongside fellow members Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung.

Her condition is set to be reassessed in September 2026, with updates to be shared with fans then. Laforteza also shared on her personal Instagram that the decision to take a hiatus "breaks her heart."

This announcement comes just days before the worldwide premiere of Katseye's first documentary, "Katseye: Wild Hearts," and the release of their third EP, "Wild," scheduled for August 14, 2026.

Katseye, formed in 2023, includes members from the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, and the United States, and was created following the finalists of Hybe and Geffen's survival-style competition, The Debut: Dream Academy. Notably, member Manon Bannerman had previously announced a hiatus on February 20, 2026.

Sources