BTS label BigHit to debut new boy band CORTIS on Aug. 18

This will mark BigHit Music's first launch of a boy band in six years – this one a five-member team of all teenagers

(Courtesy of BigHit Music)
(Courtesy of BigHit Music)
Byung-Yeon Yoo 1
2025-08-08 09:53:31 yooby@hankyung.com
K-pop

BigHit Music, the powerhouse behind global K-pop acts BTS and Tomorrow X Together (TXT), has unveiled the name of its new boy group, CORTIS. The five-member team, composed entirely of teenagers, is set to debut on Aug. 18.

The name CORTIS is made by taking letters from the phrase “Color Outside the Lines,” reflecting the group’s theme of breaking the mold, defying expectations and expressing individuality.

The group – Martin, James, Juhoon, Sunghyun and Gunho – isn't just another idol act. They call themselves a “young creator crew,” aiming to craft music and stories from their own perspectives. Each member brings not only talent but also a strong desire to be hands-on throughout their creative journey.

Their introduction to the world was as distinctive as their name. At midnight on Thursday, CORTIS uploaded a short-form video on TikTok featuring a logo sound created using music production software by member Martin. The video unveiled the group’s name through an enigmatic soundscape, evoking the sense of a new world coming to life.

Another video released at the same time showed the members in their studio, filming one another as they immersed themselves in the creative process.

The behind-the-scenes footage emphasized the group’s authentic and hands-on approach, with members taking an active role in shaping every aspect of their debut, from social media content to promotional planning.

Set to debut officially on Aug. 18, CORTIS will showcase each member’s multifaceted talent, from songwriting and choreography to video production, all inspired by their own experiences and youthful perspective.

Write to Byung-Yeon Yoo at yooby@hankyung.com

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