KATSEYE member Sophia Laforteza is temporarily stepping away from the group’s upcoming promotional activities to focus on her mental health and overall well-being.
The announcement came through a statement shared on Weverse. According to the agency, Laforteza made the decision after consulting with medical professionals, who advised her to take an extended period of rest and continue receiving care.
The agency said Sophia has its full support during this time.
“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,” the statement said.
The agency also made it clear that Laforteza wants to return to the stage, but her health comes first.
“While Sophia herself is eager to perform alongside her members, the health, safety, and long-term well-being of our artists will always remain our highest priority,” KATSEYE said.
Read their full statement here:
Sophia Laforteza Says the Decision Was Not Easy
Laforteza also addressed fans in a separate statement. She admitted that taking a break was difficult because she loves performing and spending time with the group.
“It truly breaks my heart to have to miss out on a lot,” she wrote.
The singer said she knows how much she enjoys being on stage and sharing those experiences with fans. However, she has realized that continuing without taking care of herself could affect her ability to perform in the future.
“Making this decision wasn’t easy, but I’m learning that health has to come first,” Laforteza shared.
She added that she needs to take care of both her mind and body so she can continue doing what she loves for a long time.
Her message gives fans a clear reason for the temporary break while also showing that she remains committed to her career and her fellow members.
Read her full statement below:
Sophia Was Absent From the KATSEYE Documentary Premiere
Laforteza’s announcement came shortly after her absence from the Los Angeles premiere of KATSEYE’s documentary, “KATSEYE: Wild Hearts.”
The group attended the premiere on Wednesday, but Sophia did not appear alongside the other members.
When Variety asked about her absence on the red carpet, member Lara Raj briefly addressed the situation.
“She’s not feeling well, but she says hi,” Raj said.
The comment came shortly before the group confirmed that Laforteza would take time away from promotional activities.
KATSEYE Has Already Seen Another Member Take a Break
Sophia is not the first KATSEYE member to temporarily step away from group activities.
Manon Bannerman announced her own temporary hiatus in February. The news means the group has now had two members take breaks within the same year.
KATSEYE currently consists of Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Yoonchae Jeung and Sophia Laforteza, alongside Bannerman.
The group formed through the HYBE and Geffen Records project The Debut: Dream Academy and has continued to build an international fanbase since its debut.
What’s Next for KATSEYE?
Despite Sophia’s temporary absence, KATSEYE is moving forward with its upcoming music plans.
The group is preparing to release its “Wild” EP on August 13. The release will arrive ahead of KATSEYE’s planned fall tour.
For now, fans will have to wait for further updates about Sophia’s return. Neither the group nor Laforteza has announced a specific date for her comeback to promotional activities.
The most important message from the announcement is clear: Sophia is taking the time she needs to rest and focus on her health.
Fans have shared mixed reactions to the news, with some expressing concern for Sophia while others questioned the timing of her hiatus.
