K-pop sensation Cortis recently opened up about the weight of expectations that comes with being dubbed “BTS’s little brother group” and shared a bittersweet anecdote about royalties, showcasing their endearing rookie charm just five months into their debut.
A YouTube video titled “5 Months After Debut, Their Ears Turn Red When Asked | EP. 126 Cortis Martin Gun-ho | Salon Drip” was uploaded to the “Salon Drip” channel on the 10th. In the clip, Martin and Gun-ho displayed the refreshing candor typical of industry newcomers.
Host Jang Do-yeon kicked things off by noting Cortis’s impressive start. The group achieved million-seller status with their debut album, a remarkable feat accomplished last year with a single release.
Jang then probed about the pressure of being labeled “BTS’s younger siblings” in the industry.
Martin candidly admitted to feeling the heat but also expressed determination. “The pressure was immense,” he confessed. “We sought advice from our seniors and tried to learn as much as possible. It made us aspire to reach the same heights as BTS.”
The duo also shared a heartwarming encounter with BTS’s J-Hope. Gun-ho recounted, “I recently bumped into J-Hope, and he was incredibly down-to-earth.” Martin chimed in, “Absolutely. It felt like reuniting with a long-lost cousin. He even joked, ‘Hey, did you get taller?’ It was such a warm moment.”
Martin’s pre-debut career as a songwriter also piqued interest. He contributed to tracks like TXT’s “Deja Vu” and Ailee’s “Magnetic.” Humbly, Martin expressed surprise at the songs’ success, crediting the artists who performed them.
The conversation naturally drifted to royalties. Martin revealed that his mother manages his earnings, recalling a touching moment when she called to disclose the amount. “I was moved to tears,” he admitted, eliciting laughter from the studio.
Gun-ho added a humorous anecdote, “There’s a spot in our dorm piled high with packages. Watching Martin unbox them with excitement, especially when high-end designer clothes emerge, I think, ‘Ah, the royalties must be rolling in.'” This quip further amused the audience.
Image: Screenshot from ‘Salon Drip’ broadcast
Most Commented