Sophia Laforteza steps away from Katseye, the second member to depart this year

What the report says

BBC World News reports that Sophia Laforteza, a vocalist in the global girl group Katseye, will temporarily step away from the band because of mental health concerns. The announcement was made by HYBE x Geffen Records, which said she will not take part in upcoming promotional activities while she focuses on rest and ongoing care. The label said her situation will be reviewed in September.

In a separate Instagram message, Laforteza said the decision was difficult but that she believes her health has to come first. She indicated she wants to recover properly and return stronger. BBC says the 23-year-old Filipino-American singer had the support of medical professionals and the group’s management.

The pause means Katseye will continue scheduled events as a four-member act for now. The group formed in 2023, has released songs including Gnarly, Pinky Up and Gabriela, and received two Grammy nominations last year. BBC also notes this is the second time this year that a member has stepped away, after Manon Bannerman began a hiatus in February to focus on her own health and wellbeing.

The report adds wider context that Katseye has previously spoken about online abuse directed at its members since debuting, underscoring the pressures faced by the group as it builds a global audience.