The K-pop industry is well known for its intense beauty standards, where idols must not only prove their talent but also maintain a flawless appearance. Unfortunately, former PRISTIN member Kyla Massie became one of the most striking examples of how damaging these pressures can be.
Born in 2001 in Indiana, U.S., Kyla was the youngest member of PRISTIN, a girl group under Pledis Entertainment that debuted in 2017. The group was highly anticipated, being promoted as “the next big thing” after their label’s success with After School. With members from Produce 101 like Nayoung and Zhou Jieqiong (Kyulkyung), PRISTIN quickly drew comparisons to TWICE after their debut hit Wee Woo.
Rising Popularity but Growing Criticism
Standing at 170 cm, Kyla initially stood out with her mixed-race visuals and strong stage presence. Her fancams often attracted high views, sometimes rivaling PRISTIN’s most popular members. She took on rap and vocal duties, adding versatility to the group’s sound.
However, following their comeback with We Like in 2017, PRISTIN’s popularity began to decline. During this era, Kyla faced an onslaught of online hate. Netizens heavily criticized her appearance, accusing her of gaining weight and not fitting the idol image. She was subjected to relentless body shaming, with comments claiming she was “lazy” or “unfit” to be an idol.
In October 2017, Kyla halted activities due to health reasons and returned to the U.S., where she continued to endure online harassment even while inactive.
PRISTIN’s Downfall and Kyla’s Exit
PRISTIN’s momentum fizzled as Pledis Entertainment put the group on hiatus. By 2019, the group officially disbanded after only two years, leaving fans disappointed. Kyla did not renew her contract and instead chose to focus on building a new life outside the entertainment industry.
She was later spotted working a part-time job at a theme park in Los Angeles, a stark contrast to her idol days.
A New Path in Academia and Music
Kyla enrolled in community college before transferring to the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), where she pursued biological anthropology. She has also expressed interest in applying to medical school. During her studies, she participated in research projects, had her work published, and even worked as a teaching assistant.
Despite her shift to academia, Kyla never abandoned her love for music. In 2020, she released her indie solo mini-album Watch Me Glow, showcasing her artistic side beyond K-pop.
Finding Happiness: Kyla’s Marriage in 2025
In a heartwarming update, Kyla announced her engagement in early 2025 with romantic Instagram photos and playful captions. Her younger sister later confirmed that Kyla officially married in April 2025.
Now living a private yet fulfilling life, Kyla enjoys happiness with her tall and handsome husband, while still nurturing her passions for both academics and music.
Kyla’s journey reflects the harsh reality of K-pop’s beauty standards but also shows resilience and healing. Once the target of toxic body shaming, she has reinvented herself on her own terms—choosing education, creativity, and love over the cruel expectations of the industry.
Sources: k14
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