Lia’s hiatus had been made official by JYP Entertainment on November of 2023 and that she would be absent from the group’s comeback preparations and activities as well as the world tour due to health concerns. She had initially begun her hiatus back in September of the same year. The ITZY member released a solo song “Blossom” on the album, even though she couldn’t participate in the promotions.
In February 2024, she made her first public appearance since her hiatus during the group’s BORN TO BE concert in the Seoul part of the world tour. Even though she supported her members from the audience, fans were happy to see her with a smile on her face.
Nevertheless, throughout Lia’s hiatus, MIDZYs have been concerned about her erasure from ITZY. As the group remained active, she hasn’t been included in promotions. One of these instances is when Lia was not a part of the tour’s merchandise designs, like her TWINZY character Li-Li or her solo track Blossom not being included in ITZY’s merch.
While MIDZYs missed Lia, the members didn’t forget to mention her on their concerts. On July 7 the details of ITZY’s 5th anniversary broadcast was announced. Fans were thrilled after seeing Lia’s name along with the other members. MIDZYs were excited to see Lia after her 10-month hiatus. On July 8, before the broadcast, netizens noticed that the set had 5 chairs, cementing that Lia will be there.
When the broadcast started at 8.30 pm KST, the members made their entrance and the internet was filled with happiness as Lia made hers. Sporting a short bob and fringe, she showcased her visuals as she walked onto the screen. It was a joyful moment for MIDZYs, for sure, but it also left them wondering if this marked Lia’s permanent return or not as JYP Entertainment was yet to release a statement regarding her return.
Recently, JYP Entertainment released its statement via ITZY’s official social media and FANS app. The company officially announced that Lia will be returning to the group, resuming her activities as a member in ITZY, including their upcoming comeback. The statement is as follows:
Hello, this is JYPE.
We would like to update you on the health status and resumption of activities for ITZY member Lia.
Lia’s condition has greatly improved through treatment and rest, addressing the stress and anxiety she has experienced.
Following careful discussion with Lia, we have decided that she will resume activities starting with ITZY’s new album scheduled for the second half of the year.
However, please understand that previously scheduled commitments and shoots before the release of the new album will proceed with just four members (Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, Yuna).
We sincerely thank the fans for their warm encouragement and support for Lia’s recovery, and we will continue to support our artists so they can meet fans in good health.
Thank you.
JYP Entertainment
Seeing the statement, MIDZYs were happy to see that Lia is doing better. And of course, they are looking forward to the comeback, eager to see Lia return to her members.