K-pop boy group Cortis is set to launch its highly anticipated “Put Your Phone Down” tour this weekend, beginning with two sold-out shows at Inspire Arena in Incheon.
These Saturday and Sunday concerts mark the grand opening of Cortis’ inaugural tour, an extensive 14-show journey spanning nine cities. Following their two Incheon dates, the group will head to North America in August for performances in Toronto, New York, Atlanta, Irving, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. They will then return to Seoul for two more shows (Aug. 22–23), before concluding the tour with three final concerts in Kanagawa, Japan, from Sept. 4–6.
Less than a year after their debut, the dynamic five-member group Cortis—comprising Martin, James, Juhoon, Seonghyeon, and Keonho—will captivate audiences with hit songs including “Redred,” the chart-topping lead track from their second EP, “Greengreen,” and the popular side track “Youngcreatorcrew.” “Redred” soared to the top of both domestic and international music charts upon its April release, while “Youngcreatorcrew” is widely celebrated for its infectious energy, inspiring enthusiastic crowd singalongs.
As its unique title suggests, the “Put Your Phone Down” tour encourages concertgoers to embrace the moment, put away their mobile devices, and fully immerse themselves in the live experience. Below is an exclusive Q&A with the members of Cortis, provided by Big Hit Music.
Q. How do Cortis members feel ahead of your first solo tour since debut, and what mindset are you bringing to this exciting journey?
Martin: I’m eagerly anticipating an explosion of energy during this tour. My goal is to capture every single moment, etching it into both my mind and heart.
James: I am committed to giving my absolute best at every moment of the show, ensuring this is an unforgettable and memorable experience for every audience member.
Juhoon: I’m incredibly grateful that we are able to hold a concert filled with our beloved fans, Coer, less than a year after our debut. We will work tirelessly to ensure that every Coer who attends the show leaves without a single regret.
Seonghyeon: I honestly never imagined we’d be embarking on our first tour this soon! Since this is truly our own stage, we’ll showcase everything we’ve ever wanted to. All you have to do is join us and have fun until you’re completely exhausted!
Keonho: What brings me the greatest joy is the opportunity to perform alongside Coer. I sincerely hope everyone who comes to the concert will jump, dance, and fully enjoy themselves with us.
Q. What is the significance of the tour title, “Put Your Phone Down,” to Cortis?
Martin: For us, “Put Your Phone Down” embodies the essence of living in the present. We want our audience to truly focus on the stage and the live performance, rather than getting lost in their imaginations or distractions. I believe this tour will offer audiences a clear glimpse into the kind of innovative performances Cortis aspires to create in the future.
James: While capturing moments through photos and videos is wonderful, focusing solely on your phone screen can sometimes mean missing the precious, live experiences unfolding right before your eyes. If you fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the concert, taking it all in with your eyes and feeling it with your entire body, I believe those authentic memories will stay with you even longer. We’ll do our absolute best to ensure audiences have a time they’ll never forget.
Q. What have Cortis focused on most while preparing for the highly anticipated opening concerts in Incheon?
Martin: I believe the beginning of the tour is the most crucial part. My biggest priority is delivering a flawless show where we can perform freely and confidently, without making any mistakes.
James: I constantly considered how we could make the audience, especially all the Coer who will fill the venue, as excited and energized as possible.
Juhoon: We put in a lot of preparation to ensure our energy could effectively reach Coer and help elevate the atmosphere throughout the audience.
Seonghyeon: More than anything, my focus is on being in the absolute best possible condition so I can deliver the best performance for our fans.
Keonho: Since this is our very first tour, I’ve been diligently working to build my stamina. I’ve also dedicated a significant amount of time to thinking about engaging ad-libs for the performances.
Q. Following the “Put Your Phone Down” tour, Lollapalooza Chicago, and the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, what are Cortis’ next significant goals?
Juhoon: I’m incredibly grateful that we’ll have the opportunity to perform on such monumental stages. Right now, my immediate goal is to create even better, more satisfying music for our upcoming album.
Seonghyeon: I believe the most important thing for us is to return with even better and newer music. I’m curious myself about what our next major goal will be. I think that’s something we’ll continue to discover and define as we move forward in our journey.
Keonho: For now, my primary desire is simply to continue making great music and consistently delivering amazing, impactful performances.
Q. Finally, do the members of Cortis have a special message for your fanbase, Coer?
Martin: I love you all so very much, Coer. I hope everyone joining us on this exciting tour stays healthy and safe, brings all of their incredible energy, and leaves with unforgettable memories. We promise to make this a concert experience you’ll eagerly want to come back to again and again.
Juhoon: You’ve waited a long time for this, Coer. Come and enjoy yourselves to the fullest! You can definitely look forward to an amazing show. We love you.
Seonghyeon: This will be a Cortis tour that’s every bit as fun and exhilarating as you’re expecting. Let’s have an absolutely amazing time together!
This interview, originally from a press release issued by Big Hit Music, was translated into English using AI and subsequently edited by The Korea Herald staff. — Ed.
