CORTIS is currently the most prominent rookie group.

The rookie boy group CORTIS, dubbed the “rookie monster of 2025,” is becoming the center of controversy after its members openly discussed dating and kissing during a live broadcast.

Having debuted over six months ago, CORTIS quickly gained attention thanks to their powerful performance skills and international appeal. However, a seemingly harmless recent livestream has sparked a wave of backlash from the online community.

During the broadcast, when fans asked questions about love and relationships, the five members freely shared their personal views. Leader Martin and Taiwanese member James drew attention by saying that “kissing is normal when you’re grown up” and jokingly adding, “It would be fun if all five members dated at the same time.” James further surprised viewers by adding, “We actually have quite a lot of experience.”

This statement quickly spread on social media. Some fans believed James was alluding to personal dating experiences – a sensitive topic in Kpop idol culture. As soon as the conversation started to “get out of control,” the group’s manager called and asked the members to end the broadcast, citing an upcoming schedule.

Controversy immediately erupted. Some netizens criticized CORTIS for their “careless” remarks, arguing that idols need to be more mindful of their public image. “They went a little overboard. They’re still idols, they should be more cautious,” one comment on a Kpop forum read.

However, many others defended the group, asserting that the members are simply young adults with the right to share their personal thoughts. Some international fans even suggested that the controversy largely stemmed from a translation error, suggesting James might have only meant that the group had “experience answering questions” rather than actual dating experience.

The incident has once again sparked a long-standing debate within the K-pop industry: how “perfect” should idols maintain their image, and where should the line between private and public life be drawn?

Currently, CORTIS Entertainment has not issued an official response, while fans continue to closely monitor how the group handles the aftermath of this incident.