Sophia Laforteza Returns to KATSEYE in 2027 After Health Break

The wait will soon be over for Sonnies and EYEKONS. Sophia Laforteza is officially coming back to KATSEYE in January 2027.

HYBE x Geffen Records made the announcement on Thursday, October 8, sharing how the global girl group’s leader has been prioritizing her health and well-being with their full support and resources.

“We are happy to share that Sophia will resume group activities with KATSEYE beginning the first week of January 2027,” the notice read, reiterating that she will not be participating in the Northern America leg of The WILDWORLD Tour or the promotional activities for the remainder of the year.

“We are incredibly grateful to EYEKONS for the continued love, support, and understanding you’ve shown Sophia and KATSEYE,” it further said. “Thank you for standing by her, and we look forward to celebrating her return with you in the new year.”

Following the announcement, the Filipina singer-performer took to Instagram Stories to share a heartfelt message with her supporters. She admitted it hasn’t been easy for her—having to “put in the work by receiving the care I need”—but she was deeply thankful to her fans for their understanding.

“I’m going to use this time to continue training and get myself to where I need to be again,” Sophia said. “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.”

The KATSEYE member went on to reflect about what she has learned while taking time away from the spotlight. “I’ve [realized] how much easier it can be to give to the people around you,” she said. “I’m learning that I can receive from myself, too.”

In August, Sophia announced that she would temporarily step back from their group’s activities to focus on her mental health. The decision came nearly six months after fellow member Manon also went on hiatus.

“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,” Sophia said, expressing hope that fans will continue supporting her fellow members while she recovers. 

“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.”

Still no word on Manon

With Sophia’s return now set, fans are once again questioning HYBE x Geffen Records’ silence on Manon’s status.

On February 20, HYBE x Geffen Records announced that the Swiss singer would be going on hiatus for health-related reasons, following “open and thoughtful conversations” between the two sides. In the months since, Manon has remained absent from the group’s activities, even removing KATSEYE from her Instagram bio. By April, she reportedly told fans that she was healthy and continued to be in communication with the company, though no update on her return has followed.

The lack of a clearer timeline has fueled concern and frustration among EYEKONS, especially with the latest news about the Filipina member. “So, in two months, you update about Sophia’s situation twice and reassure fans that she is coming back,” one fan wrote on X. “But for [eight] months, you have been silent about Manon’s situation, and you don’t even have the decency to tell us anything about her future? #FREEMANON.”

As of writing, there is still no word from the label on when Manon might resume activities with the group.

KATSEYE continues its schedules as a four-member act with Daniela, Lara, Megan, and Yoon Chae. The group recently launched its WILD EP and is currently on the The WILDWORLD Tour, with its North American dates running through November.

While Sophia’s comeback gives EYEKONS a date to look forward to, questions surrounding Manon remain unanswered.