KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza Is ‘Literally Doing Everything to Get Mentally Well,’ Her Mom Says

Sophia Laforteza, the leader of KATSEYE, is taking a break from the group to focus on her mental well-being, according to her mother, actress Carla Guevara-Laforteza. In an interview with Vogue Philippines, Guevara-Laforteza revealed that Sophia had been busy with more low-key activities, including daily trips to Disneyland, baking, and painting, as she prioritized her mental health.

The hiatus was announced by HYBE x Geffen on August 7, with the label confirming that Sophia would step away from promotional activities to dedicate herself to her mental health and wellness. Following consultations with medical professionals, Sophia was advised to take an extended period of rest and ongoing care, with her condition expected to be reassessed in September.

Sophia acknowledged the difficulty of stepping away from KATSEYE in an Instagram story message to fans, emphasizing that her mental and physical health was a priority for her future endeavors. Her mother, speaking about her experience as a mother of three, noted that children often need to find their own path in life, which seems to reflect Sophia's journey from theater to music.

Before joining KATSEYE, Sophia was poised to follow her mother into theater, but ultimately found her calling in music, becoming the leader of the global girl group. The group has since achieved its first No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with their EP WILD, featuring hits like "Pinky Up" and "Animal."