Global girl group KATSEYE will continue its ongoing North American tour without member Sophia Laforteza through the end of November. Labels HYBE and Geffen announced on Thursday, October 8, that the singer and group leader will officially resume group activities during the first week of January 2027, following a prolonged hiatus focused on her health and well-being.
Laforteza initially stepped away from the six-member ensemble in early August to focus on her mental health and wellness. While her absence prompted widespread discussions among fans known as EYEKONS, the joint announcement from HYBE and Geffen provides a definitive timeline for her much-anticipated comeback.
“Sophia has been prioritizing her health and well-being with our full support and resources,” HYBE and Geffen stated in an official notice published on Weverse. “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.”
Sophia Laforteza Shares Personal Message With Fans
Shortly after the labels released their statement, Laforteza took to her personal Instagram Stories to address her supporters directly. She expressed profound gratitude for the patience and kindness shown by fans during her time away from the spotlight.
“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,” Laforteza wrote.
She added that missing the remainder of the tour brought her deep sadness, but she remains determined to return fully prepared for the group’s next steps. “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. I can’t wait to share the stage with my sisters again and look out to all of you!”
Impact on THE WILDWORLD TOUR and KATSEYE’s Promotions
With Laforteza absent alongside fellow member Manon Bannerman-who has been on hiatus since February 20, 2026-KATSEYE has continued performing and promoting as a four-piece group. The remaining lineup, featuring Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung, has pressed forward with rigorous schedules, including recent high-profile appearances and the rollout of their third EP, WILD.
The North American leg of THE WILDWORLD TOUR runs through late November, with stops in major cities before concluding with international festival appearances. While fans have expressed excitement over Laforteza’s upcoming January 2027 return, inquiries regarding Manon Bannerman’s long-term status and timeline remain unaddressed by management, keeping community discussions active across social platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions About KATSEYE and Sophia Laforteza
When is Sophia Laforteza returning to KATSEYE?
HYBE and Geffen announced that Sophia Laforteza will resume group activities with KATSEYE during the first week of January 2027.
Why did Sophia Laforteza go on hiatus?
Laforteza stepped away from group activities in early August to prioritize her mental health, wellness, and recovery with the full support of her labels.
Will Sophia participate in THE WILDWORLD TOUR?
No, she will sit out the remainder of the North American tour dates and promotional events scheduled for the rest of 2026.
Who are the members currently performing on the tour?
While Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman are on hiatus, KATSEYE is performing as a four-member group consisting of Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung.
Where was the return announcement published?
The official announcement was shared by HYBE x Geffen on Weverse and subsequently posted across the group’s official social media channels.
