On April 4, 2026, KATSEYE unveiled teaser images for their upcoming single PINKY UP, scheduled for release on April 9, just a day before the group’s Coachella debut on April 10. The visuals immediately drew attention as they featured only 5 out of 6 members of the group Sophia Laforteza, Lara Rajagopalan, Daniela Avanzini, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung. The absence of sixth member Manon Bannermanprompting instantly prompted discussion among fans.
Manon has been on a temporary hiatus since February 20, 2026. On that day, KATSEYE’s management agencies, HYBE and Geffen Records, issues an official notice through the group’s Weverse community confirming that she will be stepping back from activities.
The agencies stated that the decision followed “open and thoughtful conversations,” allowing the artist to prioritize her health and overall well-being. The announcement emphasized that the break was intended to give her sufficient time to rest and recover.
Shortly after the notice was released, Manon communicated directly with fans via Weverse’s private messaging feature. In her message, she reassured supporters about her condition, stating that she was healthy and taking care of herself.
Manon thanked fans for their continued support and shared that she looks forward to seeing them again. The contrast between the agency’s announcement and Manon’s own message soon created uncertainty, prompting some fans to question the Swiss member’s current standing within the group. The speculation intensified on April 2, 2026, when fans noticed that Manon had removed any reference to KATSEYE from her Instagram bio.
With the release of the teaser images excluding the singer, reactions intensified across social media. Fans began using the hashtag #KATSEYEis6 to voice their concerns and show support for the full lineup. Some expressed dissatisfaction with the teaser rollout, with one comment describing it as
“A mess without Manon…”
Fans voiced their disapproval of the teaser, with some saying the group appears incomplete without Manon.
Fans continued to express concern and frustration over the decision, particularly regarding the single’s release without the Swiss member.
Manon’s KATSEYE status questioned as Coachella appearance remains unclear after report revision
Speculation surrounding Manon Bannerman’s status in KATSEYE intensified specifically after the artist removed the group’s name from her social media profile, raising questions among fans about a possible departure. Amidst this on April 3, 2026, The Korea Herald reported that Manon was expected to take part in the group’s upcoming performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, set to be held at the Empire Polo Club in California on April 11. The report initially suggested that her participation had been confirmed.
However, a day later, on April 4, the publication revised its earlier report. In the updated version, it withdrew the prior claim regarding her confirmed appearance and stated that the company declined to comment on the growing speculation.
As a result, her involvement in the group’s Coachella performance now remains uncertain. With Manon currently on hiatus since February and no official timeline announced for her return, it is still unclear whether she will join the group on stage at the festival, scheduled for April 10.
Meanwhile, KATSEYE is set to release their new single PINKY UP on April 9 at 9 a.m. PT / 12 p.m. ET.
Edited by Adrija Chakraborty
