On the evening of November 29, the second night of the 2025 MAMA Awards unfolded in Hong Kong under extraordinary circumstances. Just days before, a devastating fire had shaken the city, forcing organizers to scale down the event dramatically. With no red carpet, fireworks, or fire-themed LED effects, artists were instructed to restrain their emotions and adhere strictly to fire safety protocols.
Yet amidst these limitations, one group broke through the subdued atmosphere with uncontainable energy: CORTIS. Appearing alongside heavyweights like aespa, TXT, and even G-DRAGON, the rookie group stunned the audience with a high-octane two-song performance of GO! and FaSHioN.
The performance kicked off with a self-produced intro by member Martin, who appeared on stage with a full set of instruments and production equipment—a powerful statement of their identity as a “self-producing group.” From there, CORTIS launched into an explosive routine filled with confident stage presence and razor-sharp choreography.
“It felt like they were possessed,” said one viewer, while fan screams nearly drowned out the stadium’s audio system. Despite having debuted less than six months ago, the group’s command of the stage rivaled seasoned idols, leaving no doubt as to why they’re hailed as Korea’s hottest new act.
Their viral popularity was immediately evident—both live and across social media—culminating in their win for Best New Artist at the event. This victory further cemented their status as the breakout group of the new generation.
CORTIS, managed by BigHit Music, comprises five members: Martin, James, Juhoon, Seonghyeon, and Keonho. Their name is short for Color Outside the Lines, representing a creative, boundary-pushing ethos. Their “Young Creator Crew” concept sets them apart from other groups by involving them directly in songwriting, production, and visual identity.
Debuting in August 2025, CORTIS has made waves with their pre-debut single GO! and debut EP Color Outside the Lines, featuring the track What You Want. The album achieved the fourth-highest debut sales in K-pop history and entered the Billboard 200 at No.15—an exceptional feat for a rookie act. Their tracks GO!, What You Want, and FaSHioN have dominated viral charts globally, while their social media following has skyrocketed in mere weeks.
From the TikTok Awards Korea to MAMA, CORTIS continues to collect accolades, confirming that they are not just a trend—but a force shaping the future of K-pop.
Sources: kenh14