KATSEYE announces Sophia Laforteza will miss part of world tour

KATSEYE member Sophia Laforteza will miss the European and UK leg of the group’s upcoming The Wildworld Tour as she continues to focus on her well-being.

The announcement comes just days before the global girl group is scheduled to begin its highly anticipated tour. According to the group’s management, Laforteza will not participate in the European and UK dates running from September 1 through September 17. (Variety⁠)

HYBE and Geffen Records, which jointly manage KATSEYE, confirmed the news in a statement shared with fans. The companies said Laforteza is currently focusing on her well-being and emphasized that her health and long-term welfare remain their highest priority.

The announcement follows Laforteza’s decision earlier this month to temporarily step back from group activities. On August 7, HYBE x Geffen said the 23-year-old singer needed dedicated time for rest and ongoing care after consultations with medical professionals. The company specifically cited her mental health and wellness as priorities. (Teen Vogue⁠)

Laforteza also addressed fans at the time, acknowledging that stepping away was not an easy decision. She expressed how much she loves performing and being on stage but recognized that taking care of her mind and body was necessary for her long-term health.

Her latest absence means KATSEYE will continue the European and UK shows without one of its six members. The tour is scheduled to open in Dublin on September 1 before moving through several major cities, including London, Manchester, Paris, Amsterdam, Cologne, Antwerp and Copenhagen. (The Express Tribune⁠)

The group has experienced several lineup changes this year. Fellow member Manon Bannerman has also been on a temporary hiatus after stepping away in February to focus on her health and well-being. (BreakingNews⁠)

Despite the challenges, KATSEYE’s momentum has continued to grow. The group recently celebrated its first No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 with WILD, marking a major achievement in its rapidly developing career. (The Express Tribune⁠)

KATSEYE was formed in 2023 through the competition series The Debut: Dream Academy and has since gained an international following with songs including “Touch,” “Gnarly” and “Gabriela.”

For now, fans are being encouraged to support Laforteza as she takes the time she needs. The group’s management has not announced a specific return date, saying further updates will be shared when available.

While EYEKONS may be disappointed not to see Sophia on the European and UK stage, the latest decision sends a clear message: her health comes before the demands of a major world tour.