KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza takes mental health break from group activities

HYBE x Geffen says Filipina leader will rest until September as fans await her return and prioritize her recovery.

Filipina KATSEYE member Sophia Laforteza will temporarily step away from the global girl group’s promotional activities to focus on her health and recovery.

HYBE x Geffen Records announced on Aug. 7 that the 23-year-old singer would be taking an extended period of rest following advice from medical professionals.

“We are very sorry to share that Sophia will be temporarily unable to participate in upcoming promotional activities,” HYBE x Geffen said in a statement published on KATSEYE’s official website.

The record label acknowledged that fans, known as EYEKONS, had been looking forward to seeing Laforteza perform but stressed that her well-being must come first.

“We understand how much EYEKONS were looking forward to seeing Sophia on stage, but it is imperative that her mental health and wellness are prioritized,” the statement said.

HYBE x Geffen said Laforteza has been receiving the “utmost support,” while medical professionals have advised her to take “dedicated time for extended rest and ongoing care to ensure a full recovery.”

Although Laforteza remains eager to participate in KATSEYE’s activities, the label said she is expected to remain on break until September, when her health will be reassessed.

“The health, safety, and long-term well-being of our artists will always remain our highest priority,” HYBE x Geffen added.

KATSEYE consists of Laforteza, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Yoonchae Jeung and Manon Bannerman.

Laforteza’s temporary break comes nearly six months after Bannerman also announced a hiatus from group activities.

The Manila-born Laforteza serves as KATSEYE’s leader and is the group’s sole Filipina member. She rose to international prominence after competing in “The Debut: Dream Academy,” the HYBE and Geffen Records project that formed KATSEYE.

For now, Laforteza’s return will depend on her recovery, with HYBE x Geffen emphasizing that her health and long-term well-being remain the priority.

READ: