Is Manon leaving KATSEYE? Fans break down signs of HYBE allegedly phasing her out of the global girl group

If you’ve been following the K-pop side of X, you’ve probably read the ongoing rumours around HYBE’s girl group KATSEYE. Fans are convinced that something’s off when it comes to member Manon. Some believe she’s being deliberately sidelined from group activities, while others think she might be on her way out of the group altogether.

While the entire situation remains rooted in rumours and speculation, here’s a breakdown of what’s unfolded so far and why fans believe Manon may be getting unfair treatment within KATSEYE.

What’s up with KATSEYE, and why do fans think Manon is being sidelined?

BTS’ label HYBE and Geffen Records’ global girl group KATSEYE, made up of Sophia, Manon, Daniela, Lara, Megan, and Yoonchae, has quickly risen to global fame since their 2024 debut. With bangers like Gnarly and Gabriella, the group has carved out a space that blends pop swagger with K-pop discipline. But their charm goes beyond the music. KATSEYE has become known for their carefree social media energy, chaotic live streams, and most of all, the close-knit bond they openly share.

Fans express concern over Manon’s absence from group activities| Credit: KATSEYE

So when Manon began missing from several group activities, even if it was reportedly due to health reasons, fans couldn’t help but take notice.

KATSEYE fans question Manon’s absence from group events

The conversation picked up steam earlier this week after a viral tweet pointed out Manon’s absence from several group promotions. Fans quickly compiled instances where she was either missing entirely or visibly sidelined, fuelling speculation.

One major example is the group’s billboard celebration for their Glossier partnership. While the other members posed together in front of the ad, Manon was notably missing, and her face on the billboard was partially covered by another member. The following day, Manon visited the billboard alone, sparking more questions. Many fans wondered why the group couldn’t have waited just one more day for her to recover so they could appear together as a full unit.

Adding to the frustration, fans noticed that in the group’s promotional video for their Monster High collaboration, where the members reacted to their custom dolls, Manon had barely any screen time. Unlike the others, she was given little to no solo focus or commentary, which only fuelled suspicions of her being sidelined.

Fans also pointed out that Manon’s individual photo was missing from KATSEYE’s recent group interview with Hypebae, further fuelling concern that she’s being excluded from key promotions.

When fans questioned Manon’s absence, a Hypebae staff member shared, “To the EYEKONS: I am not in charge of what photos were sent for the article; they didn’t send me a solo photo of Manon to be included, otherwise there would be one! I wouldn’t purposely exclude her, guys.” What’s more concerning, per fans, is that the comment has now been deleted.

Hypebae staff shares Manon’s solo shot was not shared with them for the article about KATSEYE| Credit: Instagram

For a growing number of fans, the signs are too frequent to ignore. Many are starting to suspect that Manon—the only Black member of KATSEYE—is being pushed to the sidelines. With her absence showing up in promo after promo, some now fear she might be gearing up for an unexpected exit.

So, is Manon leaving KATSEYE?

So far, neither HYBE nor Geffen Records has addressed the speculation about Manon’s future in KATSEYE. Manon herself has stayed silent on social media. For now, the group still follows each other, but the silence is only adding to the unease.

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