KATSEYE Denies Racial Motivation Behind Manon’s Hiatus: ‘That Goes Against Everything We Stand For’

As curiosity surrounding Manon’s absence from KATSEYE continues to circulate, the remaining members of the group have stepped forward to provide clarity. In a candid conversation, they have firmly dismissed the growing rumors that her break from the stage was rooted in racial tensions.

In a feature published Tuesday (June 30) by Vanity Fair, the quintet—Sophia, Lara, Daniela, Yoonchae, and Megan—revealed they maintain regular contact with Manon. Their bandmate stepped back from group duties in February, with management at HYBE citing a need for her to prioritize her health and personal well-being.

“The most secure environment we’ve ever had was just among the six of us,” Lara explained, addressing the unfounded gossip suggesting the group was fractured or that there was internal discord. “People have no idea what actually happens behind the scenes. There is nothing but deep affection between us.”

Addressing the specific allegations regarding the nature of Manon’s departure, Sophia emphasized the group’s unified stance: “We can state definitively that our situation had absolutely nothing to do with race. That runs completely contrary to everything we stand for as a collective.”

The members also voiced their support for Manon’s right to personal space, noting how pleased they were to see her enjoying life away from the intense demands of the industry, including her recent appearance at Coachella as a spectator. “I’m genuinely happy she has the freedom to enjoy those experiences,” Sophia remarked.

Since their formation on HYBE’s Dream Academy—a journey chronicled in the Netflix documentary Pop Star Academy—KATSEYE has achieved significant success with hits like “Gnarly” and “Gabriela.” While fans (known as EYEKONs) have occasionally questioned the circumstances of Manon’s hiatus, the group has consistently asked for patience and empathy.

“Because we’ve been transparent that this is about her well-being, it is neither our place nor anyone else’s to rush her recovery,” Sophia noted in a prior interview with Allure. “We want to grant her the time and space she requires. The door is always open, and we are not looking to set anything in stone.”