Just weeks after lighting up the Grammy stage, Katseye is facing a temporary change in its lineup.
Manon Bannerman will be stepping away from group activities to focus on her health and wellbeing. The announcement was shared with fans via Weverse, the global fandom platform operated by Hybe — the powerhouse label also behind BTS.
The Official Statement
In a message addressed to fans, the group explained that after open and thoughtful discussions, Manon would be taking a temporary hiatus.
The remaining members assured supporters that they fully stand behind her decision. Katseye will continue with scheduled activities during this period, with hopes of reuniting as a complete group when the time feels right.
The note ended with gratitude to their fandom, EYEKONS, thanking them for their patience, understanding, and continued love.
While no additional details were shared about the nature of her break, the tone made it clear that the focus is on recovery and well-being.
A Major Moment at the Grammys
The announcement comes shortly after Katseye’s high-profile appearance at the 68th Grammy Awards. The group performed their breakout single Gnarly — their first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 — marking a milestone in their young career.
Katseye was among the Best New Artist nominees scheduled to perform that night, sharing the spotlight with artists like Addison Rae and Olivia Dean. The group also earned a nomination for their Top 40 follow-up single, Gabriela.
For a group formed just a few years ago, the Grammy stage represented a defining moment — one that solidified their place in the global pop conversation.
From ‘Dream Academy’ to Global Spotlight
Katseye was formed through the 2023 reality competition series Dream Academy — a unique collaboration between American label Geffen Records and Hybe.
The project blended K-pop’s rigorous idol training system with Western pop sensibilities, creating a multicultural group designed for global reach. The current lineup includes Yoonchae Jeung, Megan Skiendiel, Lara Raj, Sophia Laforteza, Daniela Avanzini, and Manon Bannerman.
Since debuting, the group has steadily built momentum through polished performances, social media engagement, and genre-blending tracks that tap into both K-pop and Western pop markets.
Coachella on the Horizon
Despite Manon’s temporary absence, Katseye is still scheduled to perform at Coachella in April — a major milestone for any emerging act.
The festival appearance will mark another significant chapter in their rise, offering them one of the world’s biggest music stages. Whether Manon will be able to rejoin by then remains unclear, but the group has expressed optimism about being together again soon.
Final Words
Hiatus announcements are never easy for fans, especially during a breakthrough year. But prioritizing health is always the right move.
Katseye’s journey is still just beginning — from reality show origins to Grammy nominations and festival stages. For now, the group moves forward as five, with full support behind Manon as she takes the time she needs.
And if their recent trajectory is any sign, this is only a brief pause in what looks like a very long and global career ahead.
