The group CORTIS said it will "keep its passion for creation" in remarks on its 1st debut anniversary.
CORTIS has been breaking firsts, bests and shortest records for K-pop rookie groups since its debut on Aug. 18 last year. Not only domestically but also in the global market—such as long-running success on the U.S. Billboard charts—the group has continued an overwhelming rise, engraving the name CORTIS.
In particular, CORTIS became a leading representative of distinctive young artists as a "young creator crew (YOUNGCREATORCREW)," co-creating music, choreography and videos.
Members of CORTIS, marking their 1st debut anniversary, shared their thoughts directly through their agency.
First, Martin said of the 1st debut anniversary, "Time passed so quickly it hardly felt real. It was a year in which I grew as an artist and as a person. Amid all these waves and tides of change, I swam hard to survive and feel like I've become a stronger fish," and added, "I am truly grateful to CORE (official fandom), the members and the company members who stayed with me so I would not lose strength."
Juhun said, "I am grateful we were able to safely reach the 1st anniversary. When we first debuted many things were uncertain, but thanks to CORE, who always believed in us, we were able to fill the past year with good memories. Now that we are entering the second year, I will work hard to show a more grownup side of us," sharing his feelings and determination.
There were also aspects of growth compared with a year ago. James said the turning point for his growth was "probably the Lollapalooza stage. It was a performance where 100% instinct and 100% reason combined, and for the first time I felt I could fully control myself on stage. When performing, I always try, monitor and revise, and I think I grow through that."
Over the past year CORTIS has accumulated numerous records and experiences, including many firsts, bests and shortests for K-pop rookie groups, No. 1 rankings and their first tour that started this year. Martin chose as the most meaningful moment of the past year "releasing the song 'YOUNGCREATORCREW'," saying, "I think this song played a big role in building our team's culture. I felt proud that the song's power seemed to grow over time."
James picked "Lollapalooza," Juhun picked the debut stage, and Sunghyun said, "I think we introduced the team to more people through the mini second album 'GREENGREEN.' That the album received a good response and the periods we worked hard to prepare for it are truly meaningful."
Geonho added, "While doing our first tour I keep feeling why I stand on stage and make music. Communicating with the audience person to person on stage, running and playing together and making good memories is the most meaningful thing."
CORTIS said they will continue the goals and pledges set when they debuted a year ago. Martin said, "I have pledged since before debut that I will not let my passion for music and creation cool. It is a pledge that will never change in my life," and James said, "I am grateful to be able to be on stage every single day."
CORTIS recently completed performances in six North American cities for their first tour, 2026 CORTIS TOUR 'PUT YOUR PHONE DOWN.' Having delivered meaningful stages, they plan to move toward other goals and dreams.
CORTIS said, "We want to keep growing endlessly. To become better people and better artists, we plan to expand our limits and take on new challenges. Through various experiences we will continue to show good music and art. And we want to hold tours in arenas and, further, in stadiums to meet more CORE members."
[Sajik] Provided by Parkhit Music (HYBE).
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