SEOUL, Aug 9 — Katseye member Sophia Laforteza is taking a temporary break from the global girl group’s promotional activities to focus on her mental health and recovery.

The singer will step back after consultations with medical professionals, with Katseye saying she has the group’s “utmost support”, Variety reported.

“Following thorough consultations with medical professionals, it has been advised that she take dedicated time for extended rest and ongoing care to ensure a full recovery,” the group said in a statement posted on Weverse.

“While Sophia herself is eager to perform alongside her members, the health, safety, and long-term well-being of our artists will always remain our highest priority.”

Laforteza later addressed fans herself, saying the decision had been particularly difficult because it meant missing performances and other activities with her bandmates.

“It truly breaks my heart to have to miss out on a lot,” she wrote.

“You know how much I love being on stage, performing, and sharing these moments with you. Making this decision wasn’t easy, but I’m learning that health has to come first.

“I’m realising that if I don’t take care of my mind and body now, I won’t be able to keep doing what I love the most for so long.”

Laforteza was also absent from the Los Angeles premiere of the documentary Katseye: Wild Hearts on Wednesday.

Asked about her missing bandmate on the red carpet, Katseye member Lara Raj told Variety: “She’s not feeling well, but she says hi.”

The hiatus comes at a busy point for Katseye, with the group preparing to release its new EP, Wild, on August 13 before heading out on tour later this year.

Laforteza is also the second Katseye member to announce a temporary hiatus in 2026, after Manon Bannerman stepped back from group activities in February.

Katseye’s remaining members are Daniela Avanzini, Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung.