Global girl group KATSEYE is facing a racism scandal after member Manon Bannerman, 23, announced a 'temporary hiatus' on Friday, citing health and wellbeing. Fans have accused the group's management and other members of racial discrimination, with Bannerman being the only black member of the six-piece act.
The controversy escalated when Bannerman 'liked' an Instagram post from commentator Simply Simone, which claimed she was a victim of 'abhorrent hate' due to her race. Bannerman, who is Ghanaian on her father's side and Swiss-Italian on her mother's side, also contradicted her label Hybe's statement by telling fans on WeVerse: 'I'm healthy, I'm okay, and I'm taking care of myself.'
Several pop stars have rallied behind Bannerman, including SZA, Chloe Bailey, Normani, Leigh-Anne Pinnock of Little Mix, and Melody Thornton of the Pussycat Dolls – all black members of their respective girl groups. Meanwhile, fans are divided, with some accusing the group of colourism and others defending the other members.
KATSEYE was formed through the reality show The Debut: Dream Academy by South Korea's Hybe and America's Geffen Records. The lineup includes members from the Philippines, South Korea, China, Cuba, India, and Switzerland. Bannerman, a former model, was often ranked last by judges during the show due to her lack of stage experience.
