KATSEYE went from Dream Academy hopefuls to charting global pop act in under two years, and the group’s lineup has become as closely watched as its music. Formed November 17, 2023, on the Dream Academy finale, KATSEYE debuted with six members: Sophia, Manon, Lara, Yoonchae, Megan and Daniela. Hits like“Gnarly”and“Gabriela”put them on the Hot 100 and made them one of pop’s fastest-rising new groups.
Then came the hiatuses. Manon stepped away in February 2026, an indefinite break focused on her health. In August 2026, Sophia announced her own hiatus for mental health reasons. Speculation swirled online, and Sophia addressed it plainly, saying in no way was it about race. Lara kept the group’s message simple: she’s our sister, and they can’t wait for her to come back. Through it all, KATSEYE kept working, performing at the 2026 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show as a partial lineup, while Manon appeared as a guest judge on Germany’s Next Topmodel in May 2026.
The big update arrived October 8, 2026: HYBE confirmed Sophia will return in January 2027. That leaves Manon’s return timeline open and fans counting down to a full six-member reunion. What do you think a complete KATSEYE comeback should look like?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.