KATSEYE’s Yoonchae Leaving Rumors Unconfirmed Amid Manon Bannerman’s Temporary Hiatus
Feb. 24, 2026 — Fan rumors claiming KATSEYE member Jeong Yoonchae is considering leaving the group have gained traction on social media following the Feb. 20 announcement of fellow member Manon Bannerman’s temporary hiatus for health reasons, but no credible news reports or official statements support the speculation.
KATSEYE, a six-member girl group under HYBE and Geffen Records consisting of Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Sophia Laforteza, Yoonchae, and Manon, shared the hiatus news via their official X account.
“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’s X account post began. “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. Thank you to our EYEKONS for your continued love, patience, and understanding.”
BBC News reported Manon’s personal statement on WeVerse, where she said she is “healthy” and “taking care of myself,” adding, “Sometimes things unfold in ways we don’t fully control, but I’m trusting the bigger picture.”
Origins of Yoonchae Rumors
Speculation about Yoonchae dates back to December 2025, when a viral prediction by influencer Ben Almeida claimed a KATSEYE member would leave in 2026. A clip from Yoonchae’s birthday live was captioned speculatively as “Is Yoonchae planning to leave KATSEYE?” Netizens were divided, with many criticizing the overanalysis.
Recent YouTube shorts and X posts, such as those alleging Yoonchae’s interest in a Korean group, have linked the rumors to Manon’s hiatus, but remain low-engagement fan chatter without evidence.
Group Stance and Fan Reactions
E! Online noted the group, including Yoonchae, supports Manon’s decision and plans to continue activities. No official denials specific to Yoonchae were found, though a fan referenced Manon affirming in an interview that “KATSEYE is here to stay—ALL OF THEM.”
Reputable outlets like People Magazine and BBC make no mention of Yoonchae departing, focusing solely on Manon’s indefinite but temporary break.
