Katseye’s Coachella Debut Goes On Without Manon Bannerman
On Friday, April 10, the 2026 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival welcomed a fresh wave of talent, and one of the most talked‑about acts was the South Korean girl group Katseye. The band took the main stage in Indio, California, to showcase their new single “Pinky Up” and a handful of fan‑favorites. However, the performance was notable for the absence of 23‑year‑old Manon Bannerman, who is currently on a temporary hiatus from the group.
Who Is Katseye and Why Their Debut Matters
Formed in 2023, Katseye quickly carved out a niche in the K‑pop scene with their blend of high‑energy choreography, catchy hooks, and a distinct visual aesthetic. The group’s lineup consists of five members: Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Sophia Laforteza, and Yoonchae Jeung. Their debut EP, First Light, topped several streaming charts and earned them a dedicated fanbase known as the Eyekons.
Coachella is one of the most prestigious music festivals in the world, and for a K‑pop act, performing there signals a major milestone. It offers exposure to a diverse, international audience and cements the group’s status as a global phenomenon.
The Show‑Stopping Performance and Surprise Guest Appearances
Katseye opened the show with a high‑octane rendition of “Pinky Up,” immediately setting a vibrant tone. The setlist then flowed into their hits “Debut” and “Touch,” each track receiving enthusiastic cheers from the crowd.
One of the evening’s highlights was a surprise collaboration with EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami of the HUNTR/X collective. Together, they performed “Golden,” a track from the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack, creating a memorable crossover moment that delighted fans of both acts.
- “Pinky Up” – Opening anthem
- “Debut” – Fan favorite
- “Touch” – Dance‑floor hit
- “Golden” (with EJAE, Audrey Nuna & Rei Ami) – Surprise collaboration
Manon Bannerman’s Hiatus: Health First
Manon’s absence from the festival came two months after Katseye announced her temporary break from group activities. In a February statement shared on the platform Weverse, the group explained that “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 band emphasized that they fully support her decision and that the remaining members would continue to carry out scheduled activities.
In a personal note, Manon thanked her fans for their patience and understanding, underscoring the importance of mental and physical health in the demanding K‑pop industry.
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