KATSEYE's Manon Likes Instagram Post About 'Label Mistreatment' Following Sudden Hiatus

KATSEYE member Manon Bannerman has sparked fresh debate over the real reason behind her sudden hiatus after she was seen liking an Instagram post alleging "label mistreatment" of Black girls in global girl groups.

Fans noticed that Manon's personal account had liked a reel that grouped KATSEYE with acts such as Little Mix and Fifth Harmony while highlighting cases in which Black members were allegedly subjected to racism and unfair treatment by their labels.

The post's caption, widely shared in screenshots, read, "Another Black girl subjected to racism and label mistreatment yet again," leading many to link the message directly to Manon's current situation, according to allkpop.

The interaction quickly circulated on X, TikTok, and fan forums, where users debated whether the "like" was a subtle signal about her own experience in the group.

The controversy follows the announcement last week that Manon would take a temporary break from KATSEYE activities. In a joint statement, HYBE × Geffen said the singer would be stepping back for a period to focus on her health and well-being, stressing that the group would continue with its scheduled promotions and expressing full support for her decision. No specific medical details or timeline for her return were disclosed, Variety reported.

However, Manon had already hinted that her reasons might not fully match the official explanation, telling fans that the situation was "more complicated" than simply health concerns, according to online recaps of her messages.

Speculation intensified further after the father of fellow member Daniela reportedly wrote that "the show must go on" and that KATSEYE was "bigger than one girl," remarks that drew backlash from some fans who felt they dismissed Manon's circumstances.​

In light of Manon's latest social media activity, some netizens now believe there may be deeper issues behind her hiatus, including concerns about how Black artists are treated in multinational girl groups.

Others caution against jumping to conclusions, noting that there has been no statement from Manon or HYBE × Geffen directly accusing the label of racism or misconduct. As questions mount, fans say they are watching closely for any further clarification from the singer or her agency while continuing to send messages of support online, as per Tribune.