Rookie Group Shockingly Branded As “6th Generation” By Korean Media, Sparking Huge Debate

“We’ll reach the 100th generation soon.”

A newly debuted boy group has unexpectedly found itself at the center of heated debate after being labeled as the group to open the “6th generation of K-Pop.”

The claim — made by a Korean media outlet — has drawn mixed reactions online, with many netizens questioning whether a new generation has really begun.

| BigHit Music 

BigHit Music recently introduced CORTIS, their first boy group in six years.

| BigHit Music

According to the report, the five-member team isn’t just another idol group but a “creative collective” that writes, composes, and directs its own content.

What makes CORTIS particularly interesting is that they aren’t just innovating in sound or performance, they’re changing the very concept of what an idol group is.

…While it’s common for one or two members to handle producing, it’s rare for every member to be deeply involved in writing, composing, directing, and performing.

That’s why CORTIS can be seen not just as new rookies but as pioneers opening the door to the 6th generation of idols. If 5th-generation idols broadened K-Pop’s global reach, CORTIS represents a new paradigm… idols as full-fledged creators

— Art Insight

Despite the praise from the journalist, Korean netizens were not impressed. Many felt that the idea of “generations” in K-Pop has lost meaning, criticizing how new groups are constantly being promoted as the start of something revolutionary. Others even made accusations of media play.

| Instiz

• “This is getting hilarious. Every time a rookie debuts, it’s suddenly the start of a new generation, 5th, 6th, whatever! LOL”
• “At this rate, we’ll reach the 100th generation soon.”
• “It’s like the generation changes every year… As soon as a new group debuts, people call it a whole new era.”
• “HYBE again.”
• “But honestly, the 5th generation was something they just declared themselves too, so I can’t really say anything if they’re doing the same kind of media play for the 6th. lol”

What are your thoughts on the topic? Will CORTIS really open the doors to the 6th generation of K-Pop or are such statements premature? Let us know in the comment section of our social media posts!