KATSEYE member Lara publicly came out as queer on March 24, 2025, through the fan communication platform Weverse, marking a significant moment for both her and her fans. In her heartfelt message, Lara expressed a blend of pride and vulnerability, acknowledging her fears about being accepted as a person of color. "It's scary. I was worried because I am a person of color. But I love myself," she shared, a testament to her journey of self-acceptance.
The 19-year-old singer, who is of Indian descent, recounted her realization of her sexual orientation, stating that she became aware of being queer at just eight years old. Reflecting on her experience on the audition program 'The Debut: Dream Academy,' she recalled feeling apprehensive about how others would receive her: "I was worried about whether people would accept me and if my chance would disappear," she admitted. Following her candid revelation, Lara expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support of her fans, saying, "I am grateful that the people in my life and fans support me. My sexuality is part of me. I'm not ashamed of it and I like it."
Lara is a prominent member of KATSEYE, a multinational girl group co-produced by Hybe and Geffen Records. Formed in June 2024 through the survival audition program 'The Debut: Dream Academy,' KATSEYE consists of six members, including Lara, Daniela, Manon, Megan, Sophia, and Yoonchae. The group has risen to fame, evidenced by their first EP 'SIS (Soft Is Strong)' which entered the Billboard 200 at the 119th position on August 31, 2024. Their double title song 'Touch' achieved remarkable success, surpassing 100 million cumulative plays on Spotify just 82 days after its release.
Lara's coming out marks a pivotal moment in pop culture, particularly for those within the LGBTQ+ community, as representation in the entertainment industry continues to evolve. She acknowledged the challenges of coming out, particularly the fear that often accompanies it due to societal prejudices. "The fact that I am coming out can be scary. I was worried about prejudice because I am a person of color," she reiterated.
Despite these fears, Lara finds strength in the support systems around her. She included her family in her journey, having come out to them first, realizing that doing so could be daunting yet necessary. "It's scary to think about how people might react, but I am proud of who I am," Lara mentioned, emphasizing her commitment to authenticity.
KATSEYE's rapid rise in the music industry has not only showcased the members' talents but also highlighted their commitment to breaking barriers. As a group, they symbolize a fusion of diverse backgrounds and experiences, which resonate with international audiences. Lara's courage to share her truth in the spotlight is likely to inspire her fans and others who might be grappling with similar feelings.
As pop culture increasingly embraces diversity, Lara's story serves as a motivating reminder that self-acceptance is crucial in a world that often places obstacles in the way of one’s identity. Her message is clear: despite fears and societal barriers, embracing one's true self is a source of strength.
As KATSEYE continues to make waves in the global music scene, Lara’s journey illustrates that success is not merely measured by chart rankings but by the authenticity and connections formed with fans along the way. Her coming out is not just a personal milestone; it's a celebration of identity, encouraging others to be proud of who they are.
