Sophia Laforteza of KATSEYE is taking a break from the group to focus on her mental health ... making her the second member to step away this year.
Sophia and the band posted messages about the break Friday, with SL saying ... "Making this decision wasn't easy -- but I am learning health comes first. I'm realizing that if I don't take care of my mind and body now ... I won't be able to keep doing what I loved the most for so long."
The global girl group echoed her sentiment, saying ... “We will continue to closely monitor her progress and support her journey … We sincerely appreciate your understanding and continued support for Sophia, and we look forward to her being back with KATSEYE.”
KATSEYE is setting the record straight on bandmate Manon Bannerman's hiatus ... shutting down speculation it had anything to do with the racial discrimination some K-pop fans believed she faced.
In a new interview, Sophia Laforteza made it clear Manon's break had nothing to do with race, saying the idea goes against everything the group stands for.
Lara Raj also addressed where things stand with Manon, insisting the six members remain each other's "safest space" and saying outsiders have no idea what goes on behind the scenes.
Manon Bannerman is updating fans on her hiatus from Katseye -- reportedly releasing a statement and updating her Instagram as the girls gear up to roll out a new single.
On Thursday, Katseye dropped the first teaser for their "Pinky Up" music video ... their first release since Manon announced she was taking a break from the group.
Also on Thursday, Manon reportedly shared a statement to Weverse -- a South Korean app where fans and artists can interact -- where she thanked her followers for their "love and support," writing ... "I’m really grateful for the patience and kindness everyone has shown during this time."