Katseye's Sophia Laforteza to Rejoin Group in January 2027 After Mental Health Hiatus

A Long-Awaited Return

Fans of the global girl group Katseye have something to look forward to in the new year. Sophia Laforteza, one of the group's six members, will resume activities with Katseye starting the first week of January 2027, according to an official notice shared on the group's social media accounts. The announcement brings an end to a hiatus that began in August, when Laforteza stepped back from the group to focus on her mental health and wellness.

“Sophia has been prioritizing her health and well-being with our full support and resources,” reads the statement from Hybe and Geffen, the labels behind the group. “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.”

For a group that has built its identity on the diverse backgrounds and personalities of its members, Laforteza's absence has been a notable chapter. Her return signals both a personal milestone and a creative reset for Katseye as it moves into its next era.

Sophia's Message to Fans

Laforteza also addressed fans directly, posting a heartfelt message on her Instagram Stories in which she thanked supporters for their “patience, grace and understanding.”

“Your kindness during this time has given me more strength than you know,” she 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 went on to express her regret about missing the remainder of the tour, saying, “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.”

Looking ahead, she added: “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!”

A Challenging Year for Katseye

Laforteza's hiatus was not the first for the group. In February, fellow member Manon Bannerman announced her own temporary hiatus, making this a year of adjustments for the six-piece act. Katseye — which also includes Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung — has continued to move forward as a unit while navigating these absences.

The group's resilience is notable given its relatively short but eventful history. Formed in 2024 through the reality competition series Dream Academy, a collaboration between Hybe and Geffen Records, Katseye debuted in June 2024 with the single “Debut.” Their breakthrough came with “Touch,” followed by their first EP, SIS (Soft Is Strong), later that year. In April 2025, they released “Gnarly,” the lead single from their second EP, Beautiful Chaos (2025). Despite mixed reactions upon release, “Gnarly” marked the group's first entry on the Billboard Hot 100, while Beautiful Chaos debuted at number four on the Billboard 200.

Their momentum only grew from there. The EP's second single, “Gabriela,” peaked within the top 40 of the Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. The group was also nominated for Best New Artist at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. With their third EP, Wild (2026), Katseye achieved their first number one release on the Billboard 200 — a significant milestone for any act, let alone one still in its early years.

What's Next for the Group

Currently, Katseye is on its Wildwood tour, which will continue through North America through the end of November. Laforteza will not be participating in THE WILDWORLD TOUR's North American leg or in promotional activities for the remainder of the year. Her return is slated for the first week of January 2027.

For fans, the wait will be worth it. Laforteza's message emphasizes growth and self-care — themes that resonate deeply in an industry that often prioritizes output over well-being. Her decision to step back, and her commitment to returning stronger, reflects a maturity that many artists in the pop landscape are increasingly vocal about.

The Bigger Picture

Katseye's story is one of global collaboration and modern pop ambition. With members from the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, and the United States, the group has been dubbed a “global girl group” — a label that carries both opportunity and pressure. Their partnership with brands like Fendi, Gap, Lush, Coach, and the Filipino fast food chain Jollibee underscores their wide-reaching appeal. Creative director Humberto Leon has helped shape a distinctive Y2K-inspired fashion identity that sets them apart.

As Laforteza prepares to rejoin her bandmates, the group stands at a pivotal moment. With a Billboard 200 number one under their belt and Grammy recognition behind them, Katseye has already exceeded many expectations. The return of a key member in 2027 could mark the beginning of an even more ambitious phase.

For now, fans can hold onto Laforteza's words: “I can't wait to share the stage with my sisters again and look out to all of you!” It's a promise that carries the weight of a challenging year — and the hope of a brighter one ahead.