KATSEYE SINGER SOPHIA LAFORTEZA ANNOUNCES HIATUS FOR MENTAL HEALTH

Sophia Laforteza, a member of the girl group KATSEYE, has announced she is taking a temporary break from the band to focus on her mental health. In a statement posted to Instagram Story, Laforteza said she was prioritising her wellbeing, stating: "I'm realising 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." HYBE x Geffen Records confirmed that Laforteza will be temporarily unable to participate in upcoming promotional activities whilst she receives extended rest and ongoing care following consultations with medical professionals.

Laforteza's hiatus comes six months after bandmate Manon Bannerman announced a temporary break to focus on her health and wellbeing. Bannerman has not yet returned to the group. HYBE x Geffen Records stated that the label's priority remains "the health, safety, and long-term well-being of our artists" and acknowledged fan disappointment at her absence from upcoming performances. The group's record label previously defended Bannerman's hiatus, stating that speculation about the reasons for her absence "goes against everything that we stand for".

KATSEYE is scheduled to release their next EP, 'WILD', on 14 August. The group's previous EP, 'Beautiful Chaos', was released last year and included the single 'Gnarly'.