KATSEYE Clarifies Manon's Hiatus Not Linked to Race Issues

WHO:

Billboard - Manon Bannerman is a member of the K-pop group KATSEYE.

TMZ - Sophia Laforteza is a member of KATSEYE who spoke about Manon's hiatus.

WHAT:

Billboard - KATSEYE clarified that Manon’s hiatus was not related to race issues.

TMZ - KATSEYE denied that racial discrimination was a factor in Manon’s hiatus.

WHY:

Billboard - KATSEYE stated that the speculation about race goes against everything the group stands for.

TMZ - The band aimed to shut down rumors regarding mistreatment related to Manon being the only Black member of the group.

(UPDATED June 30, 2026 19:48 UTC)

KATSEYE has addressed the recent speculation surrounding member Manon Bannerman's hiatus, clarifying that it is not related to race issues. Sophia Laforteza, another member of the group, emphasized that the rumors of racial discrimination are unfounded and contradict the values KATSEYE upholds. The band is committed to shutting down any misconceptions regarding mistreatment, particularly concerning Manon as the only Black member of the group.