KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza is focusing on getting better mentally, says mom Carla

KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza remains on hiatus from the group as she continues to focus on her mental health and well-being.

Laforteza temporarily stepped back from KATSEYE’s activities earlier this month after consulting with medical professionals. Her management, HYBE x Geffen, said she was advised to take an extended period of rest and receive ongoing care to support her recovery.

The Filipino singer’s current status was discussed in an interview with Vogue Philippines, with her mother, actress Carla Guevara-Laforteza, sharing how Sophia has been spending her time away from the group.

“At present, Sophia is on hiatus. She goes to Disneyland every day; she’s baking, she’s painting. She’s literally doing everything to get mentally well,” Carla said.

Carla also expressed her commitment to supporting her children while allowing them to find their own path.

“I’ll be here to catch you when you fall. Anytime you can come home, anytime you can call me, but I want you to find your own happiness,” she said.

Sophia has not been given a definite return date. Her management also said they would continue monitoring her progress and reassess her condition in September, when they plan to provide another update to fans.

The singer announced her hiatus in an Instagram story on Aug. 7, saying the decision was not easy but that she had realized she needed to prioritize her health.

“I’m realizing 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,” she wrote. 

For now, Sophia is sitting out KATSEYE’s promotional activities as the group continues as a four-member act with Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung. Fellow member Manon Bannerman also remains on hiatus after stepping away from group activities in February to focus on her health and well-being.

KATSEYE is scheduled to begin its WILDWORLD Tour on Sept. 1, but Sophia’s participation will depend on the reassessment of her condition.