Katseye leader Sophia Laforteza has officially set a timeline for her return to the global pop group following a temporary mental health hiatus.
Joint labels HYBE and Geffen Records confirmed via Weverse that the Filipina vocalist, who stepped back from public engagements earlier this year to focus on her personal well-being, will officially resume full group activities in January 2027. The hiatus forced Laforteza to miss several marquee promotional cycles alongside the kickoff of Katseye’s high-profile “Wildworld” Tour across North America.
Laforteza’s absence temporarily reduced the act’s active touring lineup to four members, as fellow bandmate Manon Bannerman has remained on a separate medical leave of absence since February.
Addressing fans directly in a statement released on social media, HYBE and Geffen emphasized their continued backing of Laforteza’s recovery process while clarifying her schedule for the remainder of the calendar year.
“Sophia has been prioritizing her health and well-being with our full support and resources,” the agencies shared in their joint statement. “While Sophia will not be participating in the “Wildworld” tour in North America, or promotional activities for the remainder of this year, we look forward to welcoming her back as Katseye continues this next chapter together in 2027.”
The management teams concluded by expressing their gratitude to the group’s global fanbase, known as Eyekons, stating: “Thank you for standing by her, and we look forward to celebrating her return with you in the new year.”
Shortly after the corporate announcement, Laforteza penned a personal message to followers, reflecting on the lessons learned during her time away from the stage and thanking fans for the “patience and grace” extended to her throughout the process.
“Your kindness during this time has given me more strength than you know,” Laforteza wrote. “It hasn’t been easy, but I have been putting in the work by receiving the care I need, learning the tools to better support myself, and doing everything I can to nurture my well-being.”
She continued by detailing the personal growth that accompanied her decision to pause her career: “I’ve realized how much easier it can be to give to the people around you than it is to give to yourself. I’m learning that I can receive from myself, too.”
While expressing regret over missing the North American leg of the “Wildworld” Tour, Laforteza emphasized that taking a step back was essential to long-term sustainability as a performer. She pledged to spend the autumn months conditioning and rehearsing to rejoin bandmates Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendel, and Yoonchae at peak strength.
“My hope is to return feeling happier, healthier, stronger, more grounded, and ready to give you everything I’ve been wanting to give you. I’m holding onto that so tightly,” she added, urging Eyekons to shower her fellow members with enthusiasm on the road. “And please, take care of yourselves, too. I love you!! See you soon!!!”
While management has not provided a updated timeline regarding Bannerman’s recovery, Laforteza’s confirmed January return positions the group to appear together for potential appearances surrounding the Grammy Awards in February 2027.
