BigHit Music, the powerhouse behind global K-pop acts BTS and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), has officially unveiled the name of its new boy group: CORTIS. The five-member team, composed entirely of teenagers, is set to make its debut on August 18.
The name CORTIS is a creative blend of letters taken from the phrase “COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES.” The message is clear: break the mold, defy expectations, and paint the world with your own colors.
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 Aug. 7, CORTIS uploaded a short-form video on TikTok featuring a “logo sound” created using music production software personally used 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 August 18, CORTIS aims to showcase each member’s multifaceted talents — from songwriting and choreography to video production — all inspired by their own experiences and youthful perspective.
by Byung-Yeon Yoo
yooby@hankyung.com
