Global girl group KATSEYE is once again navigating a member’s absence as Filipino leader Sophia Laforteza temporarily steps back from group activities to focus on her health and well-being.

The announcement, made by KATSEYE’s management on Friday, August 7, comes months after fellow member Manon Bannerman also took a temporary hiatus from the group.

The back-to-back breaks have left fans, known as EYEKONS, facing another period of uncertainty as the group continues its scheduled activities.

According to the group’s management, Sophia will not participate in upcoming promotional activities as she takes an extended period of rest and receives continued care following consultations with medical professionals.

The company did not disclose further details about Sophia’s condition, emphasizing instead the importance of giving her the time and space needed to recover.

Sophia, who serves as KATSEYE’s leader, is expected to be absent as the group moves forward with activities involving Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung.

Despite stepping away, Sophia remains eager to return to the stage and reunite with her fellow members. Her health and progress are expected to be reassessed in September, when the company said it will provide another update.

For EYEKONS, the announcement may feel familiar. In February, Manon also temporarily stepped away from group activities to focus on her health and well-being. Her absence marked the first time KATSEYE had continued group promotions without one of its six members.

Now, with Sophia taking a similar step back, fans are once again being reminded that behind KATSEYE’s rapidly growing global profile are young performers balancing demanding schedules with their personal well-being.

For now, KATSEYE will continue as a five-member group while Sophia takes the time she needs to recover, with fans being asked to respect her privacy and support her during the break.