Sophia Laforteza, 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 South Korean and American music companies 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 following 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 with fellow members Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung. Her condition is expected to be reassessed in September, with updates to be shared with fans then.

Laforteza herself posted on her personal Instagram story that the decision to take a hiatus "breaks her heart," emphasizing her love for being on stage and sharing moments with fans.

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, another member, Manon Bannerman, had previously announced a hiatus on February 20, 2026.

Sources