KATSEYE's Manon's statement following hiatus announcement has fans worried

On February 21, 2026, HYBExGeffen (HxG) shocked fans by announcing Manon's sudden hiatus from KATSEYE. Now, fans can't help but worry about what this means for the future of the beloved member in the girl group.

In their statement on Weverse, they claimed that after "open and thoughtful conversations," it was decided Manon would go on a temporary hiatus to focus on her health and well-being. For the time being, KATSEYE will continue as a five-member group with Sophia, Daniela, Lara, Megan, and Yoonchae.

The statement did not include an estimate on how long Manon would be gone. Though they alluded that Manon would return "when the time is right."

What is the real reason for Manon's hiatus from KATSEYE?

The announcement was met with shock from EYEKONS. After all, she was present with KATSEYE when they performed "Gnarly" at the 2026 Grammy Awards and appeared in good spirits. And now, fans are in a heated debate on what led to the member's absence from the group.

Now, it's great that a label would be open about their artist's health and would promote them taking a breather. However, it appears HxG's statement was contradicted by Manon herself.

Following her hiatus announcement, Manon took to Weverse to share a message to fans. In her message, she states she is healthy and taking care of herself, which is the total opposite of what her label said in their announcement.

What caused further concern among EYEKONS was the last sentence in her message, which reads, "Sometimes things unfold in ways we don’t fully control, but I’m trusting the bigger picture. Thank you for standing by me. I love you endlessly and can’t wait to see you again."

With two statements giving two different explanations for her hiatus, fans are anxious that this could signal Manon's erasure from KATSEYE. Many have expressed their concern that Manon's contract might be terminated during her hiatus, which would allow the remaining members of KATSEYE to adjust to the new line-up of members.

Some speculated that her hiatus may have been punishment for a potential breach of contract. On January 27, 2026, Manon unveiled a short film titled "NOT BAD" on her Instagram. The short film was a personal project between friends, outside of Manon's work with the group. Some believe this may have gone against a clause in her contract, but this has not been confirmed.

It didn't help that infamous tabloid and gossip curator Deuxmoi also claimed Manon was being "phased out" of the group. Though they did not give a reason as to why she would be removed from KATSEYE, their statement was enough to stir worry in fans' hearts. In the comments of Deuxmoi's post, many claimed they would unstan KATSEYE if she were truly removed from the group.

Time will only tell if Manon will be able making her return to the group.