KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza has addressed fans following the announcement that she will miss the opening European and UK dates of the group’s Wildworld Tour. In an Instagram Story, Sophia said she is receiving ongoing treatment and focusing on her mental well-being while expressing how much she wants to return to the stage with her members.
“I can’t express enough how much I want to participate in this tour and perform for you all,” Sophia wrote, acknowledging that she has had to remind herself that “our health and mental well-being should always be prioritized.”
Your daily dose of music news, trends, and fresh drops.
InMusic Newsletter
The message comes hours after HYBE x Geffen confirmed that Sophia will not participate in KATSEYE’s Wildworld Tour dates from September 1 through September 17. The company said Sophia is “focusing on her well-being” and remains committed to providing her with the support and resources necessary for her recovery.
Sophia echoed that support in her message to EYEKONS, saying there has been “nothing but love and support” from the company, her members and those around her. She also explained that she has been “in ongoing treatment” while doing everything she can to stay healthy, occupied and happy.
“When I show up for you, I want you to get the best version of me,” Sophia continued. “You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important to care for yourself.”
The KATSEYE member also reassured fans that she remains closely connected to the group despite being away from activities. “I can’t wait until I return and share the stage with my sisters again,” she wrote, adding that she has been watching their performances and believes they are “absolutely giving.”
Sophia’s extended absence follows an earlier announcement that she would remain on hiatus from promotional activities after consultations with medical professionals. HYBE x Geffen previously said she had been advised to take extended time for rest and ongoing care, with her condition expected to be reassessed in September.
Her current break also follows an illness-related absence on July 30, when Sophia missed KATSEYE’s performance at the 2026 Hinterland Music Festival. Daniela, Lara, Megan and Yoonchae performed the set as a four-member lineup.
The group has faced another complication ahead of the Wildworld Tour after Megan sprained her ankle during rehearsal on August 26. Doctors advised Megan to stay off the injury, prompting KATSEYE to withdraw from Olivia Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields festival in Irvine on August 29.
Despite the setbacks, KATSEYE enters the tour following its biggest U.S. chart achievement yet. WILD debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 dated August 29 with 170,000 equivalent album units, including 145,000 in pure album sales, giving the five-member group its first chart-topping album.
The Wildworld Tour begins September 1 in Europe and the UK, with Sophia scheduled to miss the opening run through September 17.
Leave a Reply