Ever since KATSEYE was formed via The Debut: Dream Academy in 2023, the group has promoted as a six-piece unit. However, it was recently announced that member Manon Bannerman would be taking a “temporary hiatus” from the group to “focus on her health and wellbeing,” which has taken many fans aback and ignited discourse online.
Though KATSEYE has had to promote as a five-member group sporadically, this marks the first time a member has gone on an official hiatus. “Despite having some interviews or performances with a missing member, what’s important is that at the end of the day, we’re still going to be six as KATSEYE,” leader Sophia Laforteza told Billboard in 2025, adding that “it’s forever going to be that way.”
So, why the need for a formal hiatus? If you are among the many confused about the situation unfolding, here’s a breakdown of everything that has happened since Manon’s hiatus was announced—including the star’s own response.
Feb. 20: Manon’s hiatus is announced
Emma McIntyre/Getty Images
News of Manon’s hiatus broke on February 20, 2026, with a joint statement from HYBE and Geffen, which the labels signed as HxG. The labels posted the statement on KATSEYE’s accounts on Weverse and X, announcing that after careful consideration, Manon would be going on a “temporary hiatus.”
“After open and thoughtful conversations together, we are sharing that Manon will be taking a temporary hiatus from group activities to focus on her health and wellbeing,” the statement began. “We fully support this decision. KATSEYE remains committed to showing up for one another and for the fans who mean everything to us. The group will continue scheduled activities during this time, and we look forward to being together again when the time is right.”
The statement concluded with a thank-you message addressed to EYEKONS, the nickname for KATSEYE fans, for their “continued love, patience, and understanding.”
HYBE and Geffen’s statement shared no timeline for Manon’s return. Notably, KATSEYE’s next scheduled major performance is at Lollapalooza Argentina on March 13. The group has a stream of festival appearances from March to August, including their long-anticipated Coachella debut in April.
Feb. 20: Manon issues her own statement
Gilbert Flores/Getty Images