KATSEYE’s 23-year-old member Manon Bannerman has announced a temporary hiatus from the girl group to focus on her health and well-being. In a Feb. 20 social media statement, the six-member band said, “Manon will be taking a temporary hiatus from group activities to focus on her health and wellbeing.” The post emphasized that the group “fully support[s]” her decision and will continue their “scheduled activities during this time.”
KATSEYE, formed via Netflix’s Pop Star Academy and managed by HYBE/Geffen, has quickly risen to fame with hit singles and major award attention. Management said the remaining five members will carry on with planned promotions and performances without Manon. The group even scored two Grammy nominations in 2026 (for Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance), underscoring their meteoric rise. For instance, the members recently spoke about the intense pressure they’ve faced: in late 2025 they said online backlash had become “really heavy,” even reporting “thousands” of death threats. Fans responded with support, emphasizing that Manon’s well-being is “the most important thing” and looking forward to her return once she’s recovered. Observers note that in today’s K-pop industry, such breaks — though difficult for fans — are increasingly recognized as positive steps to protect artists’ health.
In today’s fast-paced pop landscape, artists stepping back to prioritize mental and physical health signals a meaningful shift in industry culture. Fans have flooded social media with encouraging messages, reminding her to “take all the time you need.”
For now, the focus is simple — rest, reset, and return stronger.
