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K-pop Group Katseye's Leader Sophia Laforteza Takes Mental Health Hiatus
🇸🇬 Singapore /Health & Science

K-pop Group Katseye's Leader Sophia Laforteza Takes Mental Health Hiatus

From CNA · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Ongoing story
  • Sophia Laforteza, leader of the K-pop group Katseye, is taking a temporary hiatus to focus on her mental health.
  • The decision was made after consultations with medical professionals who advised extended rest and ongoing care for her well-being.
  • The hiatus comes shortly before the group's documentary premiere and the release of their third EP, with her condition to be reassessed in September.

Sophia Laforteza, the leader of the multinational K-pop group Katseye, is stepping back from promotional activities to prioritize her mental health and well-being. The announcement came via a joint statement from South Korean company Hybe and American music label Geffen, posted on Hybe's fan platform Weverse.

We are very sorry to share that Sophia will be temporarily unable to participate in upcoming promotional activities.

— Hybe and GeffenThe joint statement announcing Sophia Laforteza's temporary hiatus.

The statement expressed regret that Sophia would be unable to participate in upcoming promotions. It emphasized that she is receiving full support and that medical professionals have recommended dedicated time for rest and care to ensure a complete recovery. Despite this temporary setback, Laforteza remains committed to rejoining her bandmates, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung, as soon as possible.

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.

— Hybe and GeffenThe statement detailing the medical advice behind Laforteza's break.

Her condition will be reviewed in September, with updates to be provided to fans. Laforteza herself shared on Instagram that the decision was heartbreaking, acknowledging her deep love for performing. She stated that prioritizing her mental and physical health now will allow her to continue pursuing her passion in the future, thanking fans for their continued support.

This decision breaks my heart. You know how much I love being on stage, performing, and sharing these moments with you.

— Sophia LafortezaLaforteza's personal message to fans about her hiatus.

This hiatus follows a similar one taken by fellow member Manon Bannerman earlier in the year for mental health reasons. The announcement comes at a busy time for Katseye, with the premiere of their documentary "Katseye: Wild Hearts" and the release of their third EP, "Wild," scheduled soon. Katseye, formed in 2023, is known for blending K-pop training methods with Western pop influences, drawing members from diverse global backgrounds.

Taking care of my mind and body now will enable me to keep doing what I love.

— Sophia LafortezaLaforteza's explanation for prioritizing her health.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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