Step into the frontlines and look out for HORI7ON! Learn 8 fascinating facts about this phenomenal group that you might not know yet!
1. A South Korea-based Filipino Boy Band
HORI7ON is a South Korea-based Filipino boy band formed through the survival reality show Dream Maker. This show, a collaboration between ABS-CBN, MLD Entertainment, and KAMP Korea, aimed to find the next global pop group. Dream Maker featured 62 contestants, known as “Dream Chasers,” who competed for the top seven spots to debut as a global pop group. It aired in the Philippines in 2022.
The contestants were evaluated by a panel of mentors and judges, including renowned choreographer Bae Yoon-jung, vocal coach Seo Won-jin, and music producer Bullseye. After the show concluded in 2023, the winners, now known as HORI7ON, moved to South Korea to continue their training and promotions.
2. All 2000-liners
The group consists of seven all Filipino talented members: Vinci Malizon (leader, main vocalist), Kim Ng (vocalist), Kyler Chua (visual, vocalist), Reyster Yton (main rapper), Winston Pineda (vocalist), Jeromy Batac (main dancer, performance leader), and Marcus Cabais (youngest, vocalist).
Vinci, the eldest member and leader, was born in 2000 and debuted at the age of 23. On the other hand, Marcus, the youngest member, was born in 2009 and is only 13 years old!
Courtesy of hori7onofficial.
3. ANCHOR is the name of their fandom
HORI7ON embraces a nautical theme, naming their fandom ANCHOR, which is perfectly reflected in their debut album ‘Friend-SHIP’.
4. They are able to speak three languages
After their rigorous training in South Korea, now, they can speak and sing in three languages: English, Filipino, and Korean. This trilingual flex not only showcases their dedication and versatility but also allows them to connect with a global audience across different cultures. Their linguistic skills help them forge deeper connections with fans from diverse backgrounds, making their music resonate even more.
5. Has a Versatile Discography
Before launching their debut album ‘Friend-SHIP’, HORI7ON first released their pre-debut single, ‘Dash’, a dynamic blend of pop, hip-hop, and EDM that showcases the group’s versatility. This vibrant track exudes confidence and self-assurance, setting the stage for their upcoming debut. In addition to “Dash,” their discography includes other pre-debut singles like ‘Salamat’ and ‘Lovey Dovey’, leading up to their debut album ‘Friend-SHIP’. This album features tracks like ‘METEOR’, ‘SIX7EEN’, and ‘Birthday’, showcasing their growth and musical range.
6. They look up to K-Pop Idols too
The members have also openly expressed their admiration for phenomenal groups like ITZY, ENHYPEN, BLACKPINK, BTS, EXO, and more. Remarkably, they are now making their mark alongside these iconic names in the K-pop industry. HORI7ON’s rapid rise and achievements demonstrate their potential to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the very groups they admire.
7. Took Over Korean Music Shows on their Debut
On their first week as a debuted group in 2023, they are confirmed to appear on Mnet Countdown, Music Bank, Show! Music Core, and SBS Inkigayo established HORI7ON’s reputation as a promising group in the K-pop industry. Each offered them a unique opportunity to demonstrate their talents and connect with fans both in South Korea and internationally. Can you believe an all-Filipino boy group rocking the stage on these iconic Korean music shows? These guys are total naturals!
8. International Awards in their pockets
HORI7ON made a significant impact with their debut full-length album, ‘Friend-SHIP’, in 2023, marking their successful entry into the global pop scene in Korea. Within just five months of their debut, they had already won three trophies from various music shows and awards in 2023. Just when it seemed they couldn’t get any better, HORI7ON just won the 6th Forbes Kpop Awards, beating the phenomenal K-Pop boy group BTS and have been featured in the July 2024 issue of Forbes Korea magazine, just days before their debut anniversary.
Courtesy of hori7onofficial.
These discoveries have opened up the skyline waiting to be explored, as we sail toward the HORI7ON.
Written by | Christine Grace Castro