KATSEYE Member’s Family Identity Shocked Fans: Nation-Shaping Revolutionaries, Not Just the Elite

While many K-pop idols are admired for their talent, visuals, and charm, KATSEYE’s Sophia is garnering attention for another reason her remarkable family legacy that helped shape modern Philippine history.

Fans first noticed Sophia‘s elegant lifestyle on social media, but her roots go far beyond wealth. Her mother, Carla Guevara-Laforteza, is a renowned stage actress, and her father, Basilio Laforteza III, a former dancer, is now a chef. Most notably, her grandfather is a key figure in Filipino industrial and political history.

A Grandfather Who Changed a Nation: Domingo M. Guevara

Sophia’s grandfather, Domingo M. Guevara, was a pioneering industrialist who played a major role in the Philippines’ push toward industrialization during the mid-20th century. Born in 1909, Guevara came from modest beginnings but built a business empire that would modernize Filipino households and revolutionize local manufacturing.

As the founder of Radiowealth, he introduced affordable, locally made radios, televisions, and appliances to the masses. In 1955, he established DMG Inc., which began assembling Volkswagen vehicles, including the legendary Beetle and Kombi. At its peak, DMG produced over 6,000 vehicles annually, making it the Philippines’ leading automotive assembler.

Beyond business, Guevara stood firm in his political beliefs. As a delegate to the 1971 Constitutional Convention, he was one of only seven members who voted against the ratification of the 1973 Constitution a move that would have legitimized then-President Ferdinand Marcos’ declaration of martial law. His opposition made him a target of political pressure, ultimately leading to the closure of his companies.

Sophia: Carrying the Legacy Forward

Sophia’s family story has recently gone viral on X (formerly Twitter), with netizens praising the Guevara family not only for their entrepreneurial legacy but for their principled stand against dictatorship.

In a nod to her family’s values, Sophia herself also reportedly voted against the Marcos candidacy during a recent Philippine election, aligning herself with democratic and progressive ideals.

From her elegant upbringing to a family tree rooted in activism and innovation, KATSEYE’s Sophia is not just a rising idol—she is the descendant of visionaries who helped shape a nation.