BLACKPINK’s Lisa recently stepped away from her packed schedule to visit Punch, the viral monkey, during a trip to Japan.

The singer and actor stopped by Ichikawa City Zoo in Chiba Prefecture, located just outside Tokyo, over the weekend on Saturday March 7. While there, she shared photos from the visit, including moments where she saw the monkey that has recently captured attention online.

Punch is a young macaque who gained widespread attention on social media after videos showed him being picked on by other monkeys in his enclosure. Zoo staff later gave him a plush toy for comfort, and he has since been seen carrying the stuffed animal around almost constantly.

During her visit, Lisa brought along a stuffed orange orangutan that closely resembled Punch’s own toy. She was seen lifting it up so the baby macaque could notice it from his enclosure.

She also shared her excitement about the trip through Instagram Stories, uploading several photos of herself posing with the plush toy.

The outing comes during an especially busy stretch for Lisa, who recently reunited with her fellow BLACKPINK members to release a long awaited EP titled ‘DEADLINE’.

The project, described as a mini album, includes last summer’s popular single ‘Jump’ along with additional tracks titled ‘Me And My’, ‘Go’, ‘Champion’, and ‘Fxxxboy’.

The release follows the group’s return to the stage for a huge stadium tour last year after Lisa, Rosé, Jisoo and Jennie had each focused on their own solo projects in previous years.

Lisa is also continuing to build her acting career. She is currently working on a new film titled Tygo in South Korea and has been rumored to join a Netflix romantic comedy inspired by Notting Hill.

She previously landed a major role in the third season of the HBO series The White Lotus, where she appears alongside Patrick Schwarzenegger, Walton Goggins, Aimee Lee Wood, Jason Isaacs and several other cast members.

 
 

Kelly Rowland has shared some heartfelt guidance for KATSEYE as the girl group faces a challenging period, with Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman temporarily stepping away to prioritise their mental health.

Having experienced worldwide fame at an early age with Destiny’s Child, Kelly understands the intense pressure that comes with success and changes within a group. During an interview with Rolling Stone, she encouraged the KATSEYE members to look after their own needs while continuing to stand by one another.

She explained: “In an industry as fast-paced as music, where there are constantly eyes on you and pressure to keep rising, your health is one of the most sacred things you have.

“I learned during my time in Destiny’s Child that you can show up for your fans and your group while still honouring what you need as an individual.”

Kelly then revealed what she would personally tell the group: “My advice to the KATSEYE girls would be to listen to themselves, be kind to themselves, and continue supporting one another through every season.”

As KATSEYE continue their Wildworld tour, Kelly also highlighted the importance of making space to recharge: “Especially on tour, it’s so important to intentionally carve out time to rest and reset in their daily routines. Taking care of your mind and body is what allows you to bounce back, stay resilient, and keep doing what you love.”

KATSEYE began their Wildworld tour on Tuesday (01.09.26), although neither Sophia nor Manon was present.

Sophia discussed her decision on Instagram Stories, telling fans: “I cannot express how much I want to participate in this tour and perform for you all. I have to remind myself every day that our health and mental wellbeing should always be prioritised.

“When I show up for you, I want you to get the best version of me. I've been in ongoing treatment and doing everything I can to stay healthy, occupied and happy.

“You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important to care for yourself.”

KATSEYE later posted an official announcement on Instagram, saying: “We would like to share an update regarding Sophia’s upcoming schedule.

“Sophia is focusing on her wellbeing, and the company remains fully committed to providing her with all the support and resources needed.”

Signed by HYBE and Geffen Records, the announcement verified that Sophia “will not be participating in the Wildworld Tour in Europe and the UK”.

However, no reference was made to the group’s scheduled performances in North America.

The statement added: “We sincerely ask for EYEKONS’ warm understanding, as our highest priority will always be the health and long-term well-being of our artists.

“We will share further updates as they become available. Please continue to send your love, warmth, and support to Sophia and KATSEYE.”

Sophia also expressed her appreciation for the care she has received from her management team and fellow members while dealing with her health concerns.

She added: “There’s been nothing but love and support from the company, my members, and everyone else around me as I work to get well. I can’t wait until I return and share the stage with my sisters again.

“They’re gonna put on an extraordinary performance for you. Trust me, I’ve been watching and they’re absolutely giving.”

Ending her message with gratitude, she told supporters: “I love you all so much. Thank you for understanding.”

The Pinky Up singers, whose lineup also includes Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung, have appeared with five members since February after Manon took a break to concentrate on her “health and wellbeing”. Sophia’s temporary absence means the group is currently performing with four members.

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