KATSEYE’s label, HYBE x Geffen, confirmed that the group’s leader Sophia Laforteza will return to group activities beginning the first week of January 2027. Laforteza went on hiatus on August 7, 2026, citing physical and mental health reasons and thus will miss the North American leg of their ongoing THE WILDWORLD TOUR as well as promotional activities through the end of 2026. Despite her break from group events, she plans to use this time for training and personal growth.

Since August, KATSEYE has continued its momentum as a quartet after originally being a six-member group. The four active members—Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Daniela Avanzini, and Yoonchae Jeung—have released a documentary, appeared on high-profile shows including Saturday Night Live and Jimmy Fallon, and completed the Europe leg of the WILDWORLD tour. Meanwhile, Laforteza put out her first solo song on the soundtrack for the DreamWorks film Forgotten Island during her hiatus, maintaining her creative presence.

Another member, Manon Bannerman, has been on an indefinite health-related hiatus since February 2026. Unlike Laforteza, Bannerman has not announced a return date nor made any statement about her future with the group, leaving uncertainty about her status. KATSEYE continues to operate as a four-member unit as fans await further updates concerning Bannerman’s plans.

Sophia Laforteza expressed heartfelt thanks to fans in an Instagram statement, emphasizing the importance of self-care and the courage to step back when necessary. She hopes to come back stronger, happier, and healthier in 2027, ready to give her all on stage with her groupmates. Her return will likely be marked by KATSEYE’s headlining performance at Lollapalooza India at the end of January next year, signaling a new chapter for the group’s activities.