On the evening of October 25, rookie boy group CORTIS from BigHit Music captured the spotlight at the TikTok Awards 2025 held in South Korea. Despite debuting only two months ago, the five-member group impressed audiences with their uniform visuals, stage charisma, and youthful energy.

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Making their first red carpet appearance, CORTIS instantly turned heads, but it was the youngest member, Keonho, born in 2009, who stole the show with his picture-perfect, almost storybook-like visuals.

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The 16-year-old’s moment went viral when he accepted the Global Rookie Award. Fans and viewers alike found themselves distracted by his radiant smile, with many admitting they nearly forgot his speech while watching him. Keonho quickly earned the nickname “the boy whose smile melts hearts”, drawing comparisons to Cha Eun-woo, a defining beauty icon of K-pop’s third generation.

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Keonho’s appeal isn’t limited to his looks. As one of CORTIS’ most visually and conceptually balanced members, he flawlessly embodies both energetic street-style concepts and bright, high-teen visuals. Beyond performing, he contributes to music production and creative concept ideas, proving himself as a multifaceted idol with both talent and charisma.

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Before entering the music scene, Keonho was a semi-professional swimmer. At just 13, he shifted his focus to music and quickly caught the attention of BigHit Music, a subsidiary of HYBE. Under their rigorous training system, he stood out for his dedication, musical sensitivity, and stage-friendly visuals. With the release of CORTIS’ debut single “What You Want” in August 2025, Keonho became an instant highlight, helping the rookie group make a splash amid the sea of new K-pop acts.

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As K-pop’s fifth generation continues to rise, idols are increasingly celebrated for their versatility, combining visual appeal with individual artistic identity. Keonho seems to embody both qualities perfectly. Fans are extremely proud of him and the group, hailing CORTIS as a “monster rookie” just two months after debut.

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The viral moment at the TikTok Awards 2025 has been described as proof that K-pop has discovered its next shining gem, with a 16-year-old boy capable of captivating social media with just a smile.

Sources: Netizenbuzz