Idol Under Fire After Being Caught Badmouthing Groupmates, Some of Whom Are Minors

Tensions are reaching a boiling point for one global pop group, and it’s not because of a sold-out tour or viral performance. This time, the spotlight turns to a scandal involving a member whose private words have sparked public backlash.

HORI7ON, a global pop group under MLD Entertainment, was born through the survival show Dream Maker, produced by ABS-CBN in collaboration with KAMP Korea. After the show wrapped, the members packed their bags and flew to South Korea, where they trained and promoted as a full-fledged act. The group eventually debuted with their album Friend-SHIP on July 24, 2023.

But while the group is aiming high, one member’s actions may be pulling them down.

A leaked video has surfaced online showing Kyler, a member of HORI7ON who ranked third in Dream Maker, allegedly referring to some of his fellow groupmates as “kupal” and “tamad.” The tone was far from playful, and the comments have left fans feeling betrayed and disappointed.

the audacity of this hypocrite calling his members kupal and tamad. talking behind their back like it’s a normal thing for him. kyler chua, you will rot in hell and your karma will come! do us a favor and leave the group. mahiya ka sa sarili mo! @mld_official_ @HORI7ONofficial pic.twitter.com/Tvfixuady4

— satchel 🧬⛓️ (@kminjaezone) August 6, 2025

For those unfamiliar with the terms, “kupal” is a Filipino slang insult that literally refers to the buildup of dirt in an uncircumcised penis. It’s a crude and vulgar word, often thrown around to call someone a jerk or to describe obnoxious behavior. On the other hand, “tamad” is the Filipino word for “lazy,” and in this context, it came across as a direct hit on the ethics of his fellow members.

Reactions from netizens have been swift and intense. Some are calling his behavior toxic. Others are demanding he take accountability or even step down from the group altogether. The betrayal stings especially hard coming from someone who once stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the members he now appears to criticize behind closed doors.

And this isn’t the first time Kyler has been under fire.

Earlier, screenshots from what looked like private DMs hinted at a messy relationship scandal. Kyler was allegedly involved with a girlfriend and also exchanged emotionally loaded messages with another girl on the side. In the messages, he spoke about struggling with anxiety and feeling unhappy. He mentioned wanting to reconnect casually despite not being ready for something serious. What really caught fans off guard was the phrase, “HIGH ako,” which translates to “I’m high.” The comment quickly sparked speculation online, with some fans questioning whether it hinted at drug use or other concerning off-camera behavior.

Kyler, your IG story really changed everything. Cheating, bragging about your face card, and throwing shade at Marcus calling him a bad dancer and not smart? That’s low. As a fan, I’m heartbroken and disappointed. We really never know who our idols truly are. 😭💔#Hori7on #Kyler pic.twitter.com/VZeYLrHvMs

— FanGirl (@PressFreedomPHi) July 10, 2025

Things escalated further when a message, allegedly from his girlfriend, surfaced online. She addressed the other girl directly, saying Kyler regretted what happened and was trying to make things right. She also called out the girl for ignoring warnings and pushing forward despite knowing he was already in a relationship.

With these incidents piling up, fans are asking tough questions. Is Kyler taking his role in the group seriously? And more importantly, how do his actions reflect on HORI7ON, a group that has worked hard to present itself as united and forward-focused?

HORI7ON’s journey from a survival show in the Philippines to promoting in South Korea has been anything but ordinary. They carry the weight of two cultures and the expectations of fans who supported them every step of the way. In a group built on dreams, teamwork, and global ambition, words spoken in secret can carry the loudest consequences.

At this point, the group’s future isn’t exactly looking bright. Their agency has already been dragged into controversies of its own, including allegations of unpaid wages and even losing trademark rights. Add one member’s ongoing issues to the mix, and the situation feels even more unstable. Whether Kyler decides to speak up, apologize, or stay silent, one thing is clear. Fans aren’t forgetting any of this, and they’re definitely not staying quiet.