Fans of global girl group KATSEYE were left worried after member Manon appeared to remove the group’s name from her Instagram bio, sparking speculation about her status in the group.
The update came amid Manon’s ongoing hiatus, which began in February, and was further fueled when eagle-eyed fans noticed her apparent absence in the teaser for KATSEYE’s upcoming single, “Pinky Up.” It only included five members Sophia, Yoonchae, Lara, Daniela, and Megan. Their fans, known as EYEKONS, also pointed out that she was not tagged in related social media posts, raising questions about her involvement.
Her Instagram bio now simply reads “mademoiselle manzanita.”
Shortly after, Manon broke her silence through a message on Weverse on April 3, offering reassurance to fans who had been speculating her situation.
“Thank you so much for all the love and support you've been sending my way. I’m really grateful for the patience and kindness everyone has shown during this time,” she wrote.
The artist went on to ease worries, revealing that she remains in ‘positive conversations’ with both HYBE and Geffen Records.
“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,” she added.
Despite her reassurance, fans continued to express mixed emotions in the comments section of her recent Instagram posts. Some admitted feeling uneasy over the changes, especially as the group moves forward with new promotions.
“you removing katseye from your bio 💔💔 i feel so weak rn (right now),” one fan wrote.
“I really hope it’s not because she is leaving the group. This made my stomach ache,” another commented.
“I pray it isn’t what we think but it’s so hard not to think it,” one added.
As of this writing, both HYBE and Geffen Records have yet to release an official statement regarding the matter.
It was in February when KATSEYE first announced Manon’s temporary break from group activities, citing her need to focus on her health and well-being.
“Hello. 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 group said in a statement at the time.
They also emphasized their full support for the singer, adding, “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.”
With Manon’s hiatus, the group has performed at several music festivals as a quintet overseas, including Lollapalooza in Brazil and Chile.
KATSEYE is set to release “Pinky Up” on April 9, with performances lined up at major stages, including Coachella on April 10 and April 17.