A Unified Front Amidst Speculation
KATSEYE members have officially addressed the ongoing temporary hiatus of their bandmate, Manon, in an effort to provide clarity and silence the rampant speculation that has surrounded her status within the group over the past month. During a recent interview with Zane Lowe for Apple Music’s The Zane Lowe Show, members Lara and Sophia spoke candidly about their relationship with Manon, emphasizing that their support for her remains unwavering as the group prepares for their highly anticipated appearance at Coachella.
“Manon has been on hiatus and we love her so much and we know that she’s doing well,” Sophia shared during the conversation. “She got to talk to the fans about it and we’re just really excited and we’re really just rooting for all of us, like each other. You know, we’ve gone through so much with each other. At the end of the day, we just all want each other to win. And to be good. And to feel good and to be happy and just, you know, just keep showing up for what we want.”
Lara echoed these sentiments, reinforcing the deep personal connection the members share. “I think we also want to say like she’s our sister forever,” she added. “We love her so much and we built this together. So we just want to give her all the space and love she needs right now.”
New Music and Continued Momentum
Despite the current lineup changes, the group continues to push forward creatively. On Thursday, KATSEYE released their latest single, “PINKY UP,” a techno-inspired track produced by dwilly, HYBE’s “Hitman” Bang, and FRANTS. The accompanying music video, which does not feature Manon, showcases a maximalist, fever-dream aesthetic. The visual project also features notable cameos from figures such as Vivian Wilson, musician Mel 4Ever, drag queen Vhex, and DJ Saturn Risin9.
Looking Toward Coachella
As KATSEYE prepares for their debut at Coachella on Friday, April 10, on the Sahara stage, it has been confirmed that Manon will not be participating, per statements previously provided by HYBE to The Korea Herald. Manon’s hiatus was initially announced on February 20, with the label citing a necessity for the artist to focus on her health and well-being.
The period since the announcement has been marked by intense fan discourse, with theories ranging from internal group conflict to broader industry concerns. However, Manon herself has sought to reassure her fanbase. Following recent social media activity where she removed the group from her Instagram bio, she shared a statement via WeVerse, noting, “HxG and I are having positive conversations and I feel supported. I’m happy and I’m healthy. I’ll share more soon. Thank you for always being there for me.”
