Sophia Laforteza has temporarily stepped back from Katseye to prioritise her mental health, and she is expected to miss the opening dates of the group's WILDWORLD Tour. Hybe x Geffen, the label behind the band, announced on August 7th that Sophia would be unable to participate in upcoming promotional activities, with a reassessment planned for September.
Why is Sophia Laforteza taking a break from Katseye?
In a statement emailed to fans, Hybe x Geffen explained that Sophia has been receiving support and, following consultations with medical professionals, it was advised that she take dedicated time for extended rest and ongoing care. The label emphasised that her mental health and wellness must be prioritised, acknowledging that fans were looking forward to seeing her on stage.
Sophia, 23, also addressed the hiatus on her Instagram stories, writing: "It truly breaks my heart to miss out on a lot" and "making this decision wasn't easy, but I'm learning that health has to come first." She added: "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."
Will Sophia be on Katseye's WILDWORLD Tour?
Based on the statements from both Sophia and the label, Sophia will be absent from the initial dates of the WILDWORLD Tour. The UK and European leg begins on September 1st in Dublin and ends on September 17th in Copenhagen, making it unlikely she will join for those shows. However, she could return for the North American leg starting October 5th in Atlanta, Georgia.
Hybe x Geffen wrote: "We will continue to closely monitor her progress and support her journey. We plan to reassess her condition in September and will share a further update with fans at that time." Sophia also promised: "I promise I'm going to work as hard as I can to get through this, heal properly and come back stronger."
Sophia's hiatus follows previous member breaks
Katseye has allowed members to take time off before. Megan took a break in 2024, and Manon has been on hiatus since February "to focus on her health and wellbeing." Sophia's break adds to a pattern of the group prioritising member health, with the band continuing as a four-piece for now.
Fans are advised to await the September update for clarity on Sophia's return. The group's remaining members—Daniela, Lara, Megan, and Yoonchae—are set to proceed with the tour's early dates as scheduled.
