ITZY's Lia Back on Stage: What to Expect from Her Return

(MHNSports Reporter Sun Shin) ITZY's Lia, who had suspended her activities, is set to return after about 10 months.

On July 8th, JYP Entertainment announced Lia's comeback through its official SNS channels.

The agency stated, "Lia's symptoms of tension and anxiety have greatly improved through treatment and rest," adding, "After careful discussion with Lia, we decided to have her resume activities starting with ITZY's new album scheduled for release in the second half of the year."

However, they noted, "Please understand that for pre-arranged schedules and shoots before the new album release, only the four members (Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna) will participate."

On the same day, Lia appeared in the live broadcast commemorating the 5th anniversary of MIDZY (the fandom name) on ITZY's official SNS channel.

Lia, who was with the other members, hinted at her return by saying, "I am working hard to come back with the upcoming new release," and fans who have been eagerly waiting for Lia and the full ITZY lineup sent enthusiastic support to Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna.

Previously, Lia had suspended her activities in September last year due to health issues.

At that time, the agency stated, "Lia has been experiencing extreme tension and anxiety about her schedule, and after consultation and examination, the medical staff advised that she needs rest and treatment," adding, "Lia will not participate in the scheduled activities and will focus on rest and treatment for the time being."

Lia also reassured fans with a handwritten letter, saying, "You must have been very surprised. It seems like I've been running through a lot of things continuously, and while it was a precious time, I realized I was losing myself. I felt that I needed to take some time to love and fill myself first. I will return in good health."

Since then, ITZY released a new mini-album "BORN TO BE" in January and has been on a world tour, but Lia has not been able to join them.

With Lia's return making ITZY a full five-member group again, anticipation is building for their comeback in the second half of the year.

Meanwhile, ITZY will continue their second world tour "BORN TO BE" in Asia in July and August. After successfully completing their North American tour, they will hold solo concerts in Taipei on July 20, Manila on August 3, and Hong Kong on August 10, continuing their world tour spanning 32 shows in 28 regions worldwide.

Below is the full announcement regarding ITZY Lia's return:

Hello, this is JYPE.

We would like to inform you about the health status and resumption of activities of ITZY member Lia.

Lia's symptoms of tension and anxiety have greatly improved through treatment and rest.

After careful discussion with Lia, we decided that she will resume activities starting with ITZY's new album scheduled for release in the second half of the year.

However, for pre-arranged schedules and shoots before the new album release, only the four members (Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna) will participate.

We are grateful to the fans who have sent warm encouragement and support for Lia's recovery, and we will continue to support the artist so she can meet fans in a healthy state.

Thank you.

Photos = MHN Sports DB, JYP Entertainment