As BigHit Music’s third boy group following BTS and TXT, CORTIS quickly became a focal point of media attention from the very beginning of their debut. Beyond emerging as a highly promising rookie group with a strong launch platform, they have also carried immense expectations, having been regarded as worthy successors to the “empire” built by their seniors.

Meanwhile, as direct juniors under the same company, it comes as no surprise that CORTIS have consistently expressed deep admiration and respect for their seniors, BTS. In numerous interviews since their debut, the members have frequently cited BTS as their role models, with some even revealing that BTS were the very inspiration that motivated them to pursue their idol dreams and join BigHit Music.

CORTIS leader Martin has repeatedly emphasized RM’s influence on his career, stating: "I’ve been deeply influenced by BTS’s leader, RM sunbaenim…One day, RM sunbaenim told me, “When the members are exhausted, it’s the leader’s role to help bring their energy back up.” I’ve kept those words close to my heart ever since. I also can’t forget soмєтнing he once said in an interview I happened to watch: “The leader’s seat is just the farthest spot at the end of the trophy. Without the team, success could never have been achieved”.

Similar to Martin, James—one of the group’s standout vocalists and dancers—also pointed out that a BTS member played a pivotal role in guiding him toward becoming CORTIS’s James of BigHit Music today. That person was none other than Jimin.

James did not hide his admiration for BTS’s main vocalist, openly stating in an interview with W кσяєα that Jimin was the figure who shaped the direction of his career. He recalled the moment he felt inspired by Jimin: "The moment I saw BTS Jimin sunbaenim’s "Serendipity" stage, it felt like the dream of becoming an idol blossomed clearly within me".

That moment became the driving force that changed James’s mindset and led him to make the decision to audition for HYBE. To James, Jimin is far more than just an idol or a professional role model—he is both the one who planted the seed of a dream and the motivation that gave James the courage to step out of his comfort zone and challenge himself in an environment as demanding as K-pop.

It is no exaggeration to say that without Jimin’s inspiration and that very stage, CORTIS’s James might not exist today!

The 200x-born idol also shared another intriguing anecdote: "My mom’s actually a fan of BTS, esp Jimin (laughs)—so when I joined the label and first saw him, it didn’t feel real and was just so amazing." This candid yet humorous confession delighted ARMYs even further, prompting them to shower the young talent with even more affection.

Through the stories of James and Martin, one can clearly see the profound influence BTS have had on young people—particularly on the new generation of idols. Fans across social media couldn’t contain their excitement over these heartwarming senior-junior connections, while also expressing immense pride in Jimin and BTS:

- BTS is the idol of idol. So proud of what our boys have done for this world

- Once again, Park Jimin’s artistry continues to inspire idols. I love seeing that my artist is muse of inspiration and a great example to follow. Always proud of Jimin! The true "idol of idols"

- As someone who discovered Jimin through Serendipity I'm so happy when I see artists being inspired by the song

- Jimin stands as the ultimate “Idol of Idols”a title he has rightfully earned through his unparalleled talent, breathtaking artistry, and far-reaching influence. With every performance, he sets the standard for excellence, inspiring not only millions of fans but also countless fellow artists who admire and look up to him. His presence is magnetic, his artistry timeless, and his impact undeniable—making him the very definition of what an idol should be

- Once again, Jimin’s artistry continues to inspire idols. I love seeing that my artist is muse of inspiration and a great example to follow. The true "idol of idols"

- I only follow BTS and now Cortis on weverse, that's how good they are overall, my heart is really touched rn

- This first time i see any kpop group who appreciate again and again BTS

- James being inspired by Jimin’s ‘Serendipity’ stage is the sweetest thing ever 

- Like mother, like son… James’ mom being a Jimin fan is the cutest detail lol