Sophia Laforteza, the 23-year-old Filipino leader of the global girl group Katseye, is taking a temporary hiatus from promotional activities to prioritize her mental health and well-being. This was confirmed on Friday, August 8, 2026, in a joint statement by South Korean and American music companies Hybe and Geffen 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, the companies affirmed that Laforteza remains eager to return to performing with fellow members Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung. Her condition is set to be reassessed in September, with updates to be shared with fans then.

Sophia herself shared on her personal Instagram story that the decision to pause activities "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, features members from the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, and the United States, and was created following the finalists' selection from Hybe and Geffen's survival-style competition The Debut: Dream Academy.

Earlier this year, member Manon Bannerman also took a hiatus, announced on February 20, 2026.

Sources