Being part of HYBE’s network gives new acts immediate exposure, but corporate backing cannot manufacture artistry or guarantee endurance. Two months into their career, CORTIS is earning attention on their own terms.

The five-member group—James, Juhoon, Keonho, Martin and Seonghyeon—brings a confident, unconventional energy that sets them apart. Aged 16 to 20, they are BIGHIT MUSIC’s first new act since TXT (2019) and BTS (2013), presented as a creative, largely self-producing unit.

Their debut EP, Color Outside the Lines, arrived Sept. 8 and opened at No. 15 on the Billboard 200. The release has also remained on the World Albums chart for several weeks, a milestone the members still find astonishing. Martin says it felt surreal to see their name on the chart and expresses deep gratitude toward fans for making that possible.

For James, charting is an important landmark that signals momentum rather than arrival: a beginning to build on with steady effort. The group recognizes that success brings higher expectations; Martin frames that pressure as a guiding responsibility, and Seonghyeon readily agrees it exists.

As they consider a follow-up, their focus is on authentic evolution. The first project was meant to capture their feelings in the moment; now they’re asking what they want to say next and how to remain true to themselves while growing artistically, James explains.

Pieces of the Whole

Each member’s background contributes to the band’s identity. Keonho channels the competitive discipline he learned as a swimmer into his craft. Seonghyeon relocated to Seoul at a young age and embraced trainee life without hesitation. Juhoon’s varied experience in sports, academics and fashion helped shape his artistic instincts.

Martin, the group’s leader and a Korean-Canadian, spent years preparing for debut and has production credits for other HYBE acts. He relies on small routines—basketball, bike rides, walks and music—to steady his confidence when self-doubt appears.

James, who grew up between Hong Kong and Taiwan and is Thai-Chinese, credits his multicultural upbringing with broadening his tastes and curiosity. He choreographs, composes and previously worked as a backup dancer, experiences that inform his creative contributions.

Juhoon, raised in South Korea, combined athletics and early modeling with international schooling; the variety of his past helped him discover music. Seonghyeon, scouted at an amusement park, contributed to every track on the EP and describes training as an encouraging, formative journey.

Keonho spent three years as a trainee after competing in swimming; his outlook on growth centers on competing with himself and continuing steady improvement.

The five share a Seoul dorm and a tight daily routine that doubles as content for their channel. Living together amplifies bonds and requires small rules—like each member washing their own dishes—to keep communal life fair and simple.

They also keep advice from peers close at hand. James uses the phrase “one step at a time” as a personal reminder to move deliberately rather than rush. The group says guidance from established artists—stay humble, care for your team and preserve passion—shapes how they approach both work and relationships behind the scenes.

Though CORTIS has yet to tour, their Brazilian audience is already enthusiastic: fans have rallied around the band’s affection for açaí and embraced the fandom nickname “Cortinas.” The members say they’re eager to visit Brazil and perform when the chance arises.

This piece was written by Isabela Pacilio for Billboard Brasil.