KATSEYE leader Sophia Laforteza is temporarily stepping away from the group to focus on her mental health, months after Manon Bannerman made a similar announcement.
The six-member girl group announced on Friday, August 7, that Laforteza will miss “upcoming promotional activities” as she takes time to rest and receive ongoing care.
“Sophia has been receiving the utmost support, and following thorough consultations with medical professionals, it has been advised that she take dedicated time for extended rest and ongoing care to ensure a full recovery,” KATSEYE wrote in a statement shared to Weverse.
The group noted that Laforteza’s condition will be reassessed in September following consultations with medical professionals.
Laforteza, 23, also addressed fans on Instagram, admitting that taking a break was difficult but necessary.
“It truly breaks my heart to have to miss out on a lot. You know how much I love being on stage, performing, and sharing these moments with you,” she wrote. “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.”
Laforteza did not go into details about her health condition. However, she has been open about her ADHD diagnosis, admitting in a May livestream that it often makes her life “difficult” and causes “a lot of internal restlessness.”
Meanwhile, Bannerman announced her hiatus back in February, explaining that she needs to “focus on her health and wellbeing.” She has since removed KATSEYE from her Instagram bio.
2026-08-07 23:43:00
