Sophia Laforteza Announces Return to KATSEYE in 2027

Sophia Laforteza, born on December 31st, 2002, in Manila, Philippines, known as the leader of KATSEYE, has officially announced she will be returning to the popular girl-group in the first week of January, 2027.

To new fans, or EYEKONs as the band calls them, KATSEYE is a global girl group formed by HYBE x GEFFEN through the survival program Dream Academy in 2024, where the girls later debuted on June 28th, 2024, with their single “Debut.” The group consists of six members: Sophia Laforteza, Daniela Avanzini, Jeong Yoonchae, Manon Bannerman, Lara Raj, and Megan Skiendiel. 

HYBE x GEFFEN released a statement on Weverse, the app they use to communicate with their fans, on October 8th, stating: “‘We are happy to share that Sophia will resume group activities with KATSEYE beginning the first week of January 2027, Sophia has been prioritizing her health and well-being with our full support and resources. While Sophia will not be participating in THE WILDWORLD TOUR in North America, or promotional activities for the remainder of the year, we look forward to welcoming her back as KATSEYE continues this next chapter together in 2027. We are incredibly grateful to EYEKONS for the continued love, support, and understanding you’ve shown Sophia and KATSEYE. Thank you for standing by her, and we look forward to celebrating her return with you in the new year.’”

Sophia previously went on hiatus on August 7th to prioritize her health and well-being, a day before the HITC (Head in the Clouds) set, and one week before the WILD EP. 

Laforteza also released a solo song cover of INXS’s “Never Tear Us Apart” for the Dreamworks movie Forgotten Island, which connects to her Filipino roots. She expressed her deep pride in the project since it connects to her heritage, values, and family. 

Sophia’s statement on Instagram states, “‘EYEKONS, Before anything else, I want to thank you for giving me your patience, grace, and understanding. Your kindness during this time has given me more strength than you know. 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. I’ve learned so much about myself and what is truly best for my mind and body. Learning to care for myself, and continuing to do that work every day, is something I want to carry with me as I grow both as a person and as an artist. I’ve realised 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. It pains me deeply that I won’t be able to participate in the remainder of the tour this year. I’m going to use this time to continue training and get myself to where I need to be again. As much as I wish I could simply push through, I’ve come to understand that sometimes having the courage to take a step back is what allows you to move forward. 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. I can’t wait to share the stage with my sisters again and look out to all of you! Please continue to support and cheer on my girls!!! Trust that we’ve been keeping in touch, and know that you are always on my mind. How I miss you, EYEKONS. Thank you for giving me the grace to take care of myself. And please, take care of yourselves, too. I love you!! See you soon!!! ♥️ Love, Sophia.’”

According to Forbes, by January, Sophia’s hiatus will be for 5 months, while her bandmate Manon Bannerman will be on hiatus for 11 months. Her bandmate Manon went on hiatus on February 20th, 2026, also citing the same reasons as Laforteza’s hiatus. Unlike Sophia’s return, Manon’s return to KATSEYE—or her potential departure from the group—has not been announced. This has left EYEKONS furious, anxious, and speculating heavily on why there hasn’t been a statement regarding her status in the group. 

KATSEYE is currently doing group activities with members Lara, Megan, Daniela, and Yoonchae. Some of those activities include releasing a documentary and performing the song, “I Won’t Say (I’m in Love)” from Hercules at D23 on August 16th. They also made their second appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on August 12th, marking their last appearance as a six-member group before member Manon went on hiatus. The group made their SNL debut with a parody of Dream Academy, featuring the members as judges. Additionally, the members also attended Paris Fashion Week and completed the European leg of the WILDWORLD tour.

Even though Sophia won’t be participating in the North American tour dates, she supports them from afar.

Image Currency of David Lee on Wikimedia Commons.