K-pop group CORTIS has been named to Billboard’s 21 Under 21 list, recognizing them as one of the most influential artists under 21 in the music industry.
CORTIS (Martin, James, Juhoon, Seonghyeon, and Keonho) appeared on Billboard’s 21 Under 21 list, published on the magazine’s website on July 31. They are the only K-pop boy group to make the cut this year.
Billboard compiles and releases its 21 Under 21 list annually. The selection process considers quantitative metrics such as album and track sales, streaming numbers, social media engagement, and radio and TV reach, as well as industry impact and growth potential. This year’s list also features HYBE’s global girl group KATSEYE and JYP Entertainment’s GIRLSET.
CORTIS made waves last year with their debut album COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES, which soared to No. 15 on the Billboard 200 – the highest debut album ranking for a K-pop group, excluding project teams. Their sophomore mini-album GREENGREEN, released in May, climbed to No. 3 on the same chart. As of the latest Billboard chart (dated August 1), the title track “REDRED” has maintained its position on both the Global 200 and Global (excluding the U.S.) charts for 13 consecutive weeks.
In an exclusive interview, CORTIS members shared their excitement: This has been a dream for so long, and experiencing it in reality is even more incredible. It’s humbling to see the music reaching beyond its origins, and it’s truly grateful for this recognition.
In a surprise move, CORTIS dropped a digital single “MOTION” (feat. Juicy J) on July 31, collaborating with Southern hip-hop legend Juicy J. The group is set to take the stage for a solo performance at Lollapalooza Chicago in Grant Park on August 1.
CORTIS burst onto the scene in August last year with their debut single “What You Want.” Branding themselves as a Young Creator Crew, all members contribute to music, choreography, and video production. They’ve since released hit tracks like “GO!,” “FaSHioN,” and “REDRED.” Their mini-album GREENGREEN, featuring “REDRED,” has surpassed 3 million copies sold, according to Circle Chart.