CORTIS, from Big Hit’s youngest act to YOUNGCREATORCREW to a future 'stadium tour' — "Our passion has not faded"

[Sportschosun Baek Ji-eun reporter] CORTIS, Big Hit Music’s youngest act, marked a dazzling first anniversary since its debut on August 18 last year. CORTIS is a five-member boy group launched by Big Hit Music, home to BTS and Tomorrow X Together (TXT), showcasing a distinctive musical vision as a creator team that co-produces music, videos, and choreography. The group sparked a YOUNGCREATORCREW craze upon debuting. Martin said, "Time has passed so quickly that it hardly feels real. It has been a year of growth, both as an artist and as a person." Juhoon added, "When we debuted, so much was uncertain, but thanks to the people who always believed in us, we were able to fill the past year with good memories." Their second mini album, GREENGREEN, entered the U.S. Billboard 200 at No. 3 on the May 23 chart, remaining on the chart for 13 consecutive weeks—longest chart run among boy groups debuting in the past five years. The title track, REDRED, topped major music charts at home and abroad. With 1.1 billion cumulative streams on Spotify, CORTIS completed its first world tour, PUT YOUR PHONE DOWN, and performed at Lollapalooza Chicago. The members reflected that the experience improved their stage performance. Martin noted, "Young Creator Crew played a major role in building our team culture." Juhoon said, "Our debut stage is the most memorable for me." Keonho added, "Through our first tour, I keep feeling why I stand on stage and make music." CORTIS will perform at Korea University Hwajeong Gymnasium in Seoul on August 22 and 23 for its first-anniversary concert, "Birthday Party." The group aims to push their limits, gain diverse experiences, and eventually host arena and stadium tours. James emphasized, "I am giving my all on stage, 300 percent, with the same passion I had before debut."