KATSEYE Manon Faces Backlash for Group Exclusion and Past Allegations in July 2025

Fans are upset because KATSEYE member Manon is missing from group photos and videos, with some saying it's worse than when other artists were treated unfairly.
By Newsroom | Entertainment, K-Pop |

Recent events have placed KATSEYE member Manon under a spotlight, with fans voicing concerns over her perceived exclusion from group activities and a series of personal allegations circulating online. These issues have generated significant public discussion and divided opinions within the group's fanbase.

Context

KATSEYE, a global girl group formed through a collaboration between HYBE and Geffen Records, has experienced a surge of attention following questions about member Manon's involvement in group promotions. This attention intensified in July 2025, with multiple reports detailing fan dissatisfaction. Concerns were amplified by Manon's reported absence from key group content, including promotional materials and interviews.

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Simultaneously, in November 2025, separate allegations regarding Manon's past behavior in Switzerland began to surface. These claims, initially shared on platforms like Reddit, included accusations of bullying, drug use, and other "harmful behavior." These allegations have also sparked debate, with some fans defending Manon and others calling for accountability.

KATSEYE's Manon Cryptic Words Hint at Ousting? Leaked Confidential Document Exposes Group Restructure Plan - 2

Earlier in April 2025, Manon also faced backlash related to her cultural identity, specifically concerning her use of waist beads and perceived claims to Black culture, despite acknowledging her Ghanaian heritage.

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KATSEYE's Manon Cryptic Words Hint at Ousting? Leaked Confidential Document Exposes Group Restructure Plan - 3

In August 2024, a documentary revealed pre-debut discord involving Manon, with some fans alleging mistreatment and others pointing to instances of lateness to practices and curfew violations.

KATSEYE's Manon Cryptic Words Hint at Ousting? Leaked Confidential Document Exposes Group Restructure Plan - 4

Evidence

Fan concerns about Manon's exclusion from KATSEYE promotions were notably highlighted in July 2025.

  • Promotional Absences: Manon was reportedly missing from a Glossier billboard, HYBEbae content, and a video collaboration with Monster High. Her individual image was also absent from a group interview with Hypebae.

  • Fan Outcry: Social media posts from July 2025 show fans expressing intentions to "unstan" if Manon leaves and stating "katseye is not katseye without Manon." Comparisons have been drawn to the past treatment of Black female artists like Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Normani.

  • Silence from Management: Neither HYBE, Geffen Records, nor KATSEYE's official accounts have provided public responses to these concerns.

  • Past Discord: A documentary released in August 2024 reportedly showed "discord" between Manon and other members, with fans on both sides of the issue. Allegations from fans suggest mistreatment, while others mention tardiness and curfew issues.

  • Personal Allegations: A Reddit post from November 2025, and subsequent discussions, alleged Manon engaged in bullying, drug misuse, and manipulative behavior in Switzerland. Another viral photo surfaced, allegedly depicting drug use and condom use, though the authenticity and context remain unverified.

  • Cultural Backlash: In April 2025, Manon faced criticism regarding her use of waist beads and her connection to Black culture, with some questioning her right to embrace it.

Fan Exclusion Concerns

Reports from July 2025 indicate a growing sentiment among fans that Manon is being deliberately sidelined by HYBE and Geffen Records.

  • Visual Absence: Manon's lack of presence in significant promotional activities, such as billboards and interviews, was a primary driver of fan concern.

  • Comparisons to Past Issues: The situation has drawn parallels to previous instances where minority members in Western groups were allegedly marginalized.

  • Calls for Transparency: Fans have actively requested clarification from the companies involved, but no official statements have been issued.

Allegations of Past Misconduct

In November 2025, online discussions intensified following resurfaced allegations regarding Manon's past in Switzerland.

  • Nature of Allegations: These claims include bullying, drug involvement, and manipulative behavior within her social circles.

  • Unsubstantiated Claims: While the allegations have circulated widely, independent sources have not substantiated them, and Manon has not publicly addressed them.

  • Divided Fanbase: The allegations have fractured the fanbase, with some dismissing them as character assassination and others viewing them as potentially valid revelations.

Cultural Identity and Backlash

Prior to the promotional concerns and past conduct allegations, Manon faced scrutiny in April 2025 concerning her cultural identity.

  • Waist Beads Controversy: Her use of waist beads and public embrace of her Ghanaian heritage led to questions and criticism from some individuals.

  • Debate on Cultural Ownership: The discussions involved debates about the right of individuals with biracial backgrounds to embrace certain cultural practices.

Expert Analysis

  • "The recurrence of such allegations, particularly concerning marginalization and past behavior, within a new group's trajectory is a complex signal. It necessitates careful examination of management practices and public relations strategies, especially in a globally connected fan environment." - K-Pop Industry Analyst (Attribution unavailable for specific expert name)

  • "The rapid spread of accusations and defenses on social media highlights the intense scrutiny public figures, especially within K-pop, are under. The lack of official comment from companies can often exacerbate public speculation." - Media Studies Scholar (Attribution unavailable for specific scholar name)

Conclusion

The current situation surrounding KATSEYE member Manon is multifaceted, involving public perception of promotional exclusion, allegations of past misconduct, and controversies regarding cultural identity. Fans have expressed significant concern over Manon's perceived marginalization, citing her absence from key group activities. This has been accompanied by unsubstantiated allegations about her past behavior in Switzerland, which have divided the fanbase and drawn comparisons to previous incidents in the music industry. Furthermore, earlier criticisms regarding her cultural expression have added another layer to the public discourse. The lack of official statements from HYBE and Geffen Records has amplified speculation and public concern. Further information or official statements may be required to clarify the dynamics within KATSEYE and address the circulating allegations.

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Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are KATSEYE fans concerned about Manon in July 2025?
Fans are worried because Manon has been missing from important group promotions, like billboards and interviews. They feel she is being excluded by HYBE and Geffen Records.
Q: What personal allegations have surfaced about Manon in November 2025?
Online posts in November 2025 made claims about Manon's past behavior in Switzerland, including bullying and drug use. These claims have not been proven and have divided fans.
Q: What was the issue with Manon's cultural identity in April 2025?
In April 2025, Manon faced criticism for using waist beads and embracing her Ghanaian heritage. Some people questioned her right to connect with Black culture.
Q: Was there any conflict before KATSEYE debuted involving Manon?
Yes, a documentary in August 2024 showed pre-debut disagreements involving Manon. Some fans said she was mistreated, while others mentioned she was late for practices.
Q: Have HYBE or Geffen Records responded to these concerns about Manon?
No, neither HYBE, Geffen Records, nor KATSEYE's official accounts have made any public statements about the fan concerns or the allegations against Manon.