Katseye's Manon Bannerman Addresses Fans During Hiatus, Confirms 'Positive Conversations' With Label

Katseye member Manon Bannerman has provided an update to fans regarding her ongoing hiatus from the K-pop girl group, confirming productive discussions with her record label following speculation about her future with the group.

The communication came after Katseye released a teaser for their upcoming single "Pinky Up" on Thursday, April 2, which notably excluded Bannerman. The absence sparked immediate discussion among fans, particularly after observers noted that Bannerman had removed references to the group from her Instagram biography.

Addressing the growing speculation, Bannerman reportedly shared a message with fans via the Weverse platform later that day. "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, according to Forbes. "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."

Bannerman's hiatus was officially announced on February 20 by Hybe and Geffen Records. The joint statement indicated that following "open and thoughtful conversations together," the decision was made for Bannerman to take "a temporary hiatus from group activities to focus on her health and wellbeing." The labels emphasized their full support for the decision while confirming that Katseye would continue with scheduled activities and looked forward to reuniting "when the time is right."

As Katseye prepares for their highly anticipated Coachella debut this April, the remaining five members have not publicly addressed Bannerman's absence from group activities.

In a February interview with The Cut, Bannerman discussed the unique challenges she faced as the only Black member of Katseye. She addressed criticism that emerged during her time on Dream Academy, the survival show that formed the group, particularly regarding missed rehearsals due to illness. "Being called lazy, especially as a Black girl, is not fair," Bannerman stated. "Now I feel like I always need to put in extra work to prove something, even though I really don't." Despite the challenges, Bannerman maintained strong performance throughout the group's debut headlining tour, missing only one date before the tour concluded in December.

Rolling Stone music writer Larisha Paul has examined the broader systemic pressures faced by artists in Bannerman's position. "The idea that Black women should simply power through, or endure mistreatment under the guise of proving themselves, is systemic. It's a perpetual test designed for them to fail," Paul wrote. "It's expected that they not only overextend themselves to prove their place, but also that they should feel lucky to be there — and be considered — at all. But it's never a privilege to suffer and struggle."

The situation highlights ongoing discussions about mental health support and representation within the K-pop industry, as fans continue to express support for Bannerman's wellbeing while awaiting further updates about her future with the group.