CORTIS Just Pulled the Ultimate ‘Chart Reversal’ 📈 – And We’re Obsessed! ✨

In the dynamic world of K-pop, where new releases often dominate headlines, a true underdog story has captivated us all. CORTIS, the quintet known for their distinct sound, has just achieved a monumental milestone, proving that genuine talent, like a hidden gem, always finds its way to the top.

We are thrilled to report that CORTIS‘s debut album, ‘COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES,’ has officially claimed the top spot on Circle Chart’s December 2025 Monthly Album Chart, making it the best-selling K-pop album of the month. This incredible achievement comes four months after its initial release on September 8, 2025. What makes this feat truly remarkable is that CORTIS, comprised of members Martin, James, Joohun, Sunghyun, and Gunho, managed to outshine all other albums in the top five, most of which were brand-new releases from December.

This isn’t just a chart win; it’s a quintessential ‘역주행’ (yeokjuhang), or ‘chart reversal,’ a phenomenon where an older release unexpectedly surges back into popularity. According to Circle Chart’s analysis, this remarkable turnaround was fueled by a perfect storm of factors. Global media outlets showered the album with critical acclaim, while the year-end awards season brought a fresh wave of attention. Crucially, the bold and empowering message embedded within their title track, ‘What You Want,’ deeply resonated with audiences worldwide.

• Global media praise and critical acclaim 🌍
• Surging interest during the year-end wrap-up season 🎁
• Electrifying year-end broadcasts and awards show performances that went viral 🔥
• The powerful, resonant message of their title track, ‘What You Want’ 💪

Indeed, the group’s captivating stage performances during year-end shows and award ceremonies sparked a phenomenal upward trend across the board, from album sales and streaming figures to social media followers. Their performance videos rapidly climbed to the top ranks of YouTube’s most-watched content, igniting fervent discussions online. Furthermore, ‘What You Want’ became a trending ‘New Year’s first song,’ with fans embracing its audacious declaration to unhesitatingly pursue one’s desires. The lyrics, “돈, 멋, 명예, Love and what? / Ooh Take what you want” (Money, style, fame, Love and what? / Ooh Take what you want), particularly resonated, capturing the ambitious spirit of starting a new year.

Speaking of awards, the momentum continues for CORTIS. We anticipate their presence at the upcoming 40th Golden Disc Awards, set to take place on January 10 at the prestigious Taipei Dome. This is undoubtedly a well-deserved recognition of their hard work and the undeniable impact of ‘COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES.’

This ‘역주행’ by CORTIS truly exemplifies the power of a hidden gem finally getting its spotlight. Their authentic sound and powerful message prove that quality and perseverance will always rise above the noise.

We can’t wait to see what heights CORTIS will reach next as they continue to color outside the lines of conventional success.

Editor: Jiyoon Lee ✈️

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