“4th & 5th Gen’s Best” New HYBE Idol’s Visuals Spark Explosive Reactions

A new face from HYBE is catching the internet’s attention before he’s even stepped on stage. In fact, netizens are convinced that the rookie could be one of the standout visuals of the next generation of K-Pop.

The star in question is Keonho from BIGHIT MUSIC‘s new boy group CORTIS. HYBE’s new five-member boy group is set to make their first appearance soon and later debut on August 18.

Among the members, Keonho — born in 2009 and the group’s youngest — has quickly become the one to watch. Fansite photographers have already begun following him pre-debut, with his tall height, sharp features, and balanced proportions earning him the “visual center” label from many netizens.

Some are even comparing him to established visual icons, noting similarities to ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo and actor Kim Jihoon. Others were surprised to learn he’s only in his first year of high school, as many say he appears more mature than his age.

The rest of CORTIS’s members are also being praised for their height and looks, with fans pointing out that the group’s polished image already reflects HYBE’s high standards.

• “Even if you lined up every SM male idol in history, he’d still be the best-looking.”
• “Out of all 4th and 5th gen male idols, he’s the most handsome.”
• “The fact that he’s 12 years younger than Cha Eunwoo is honestly shocking. He’s a first-year in high school, but looks so mature. And yes, he’s definitely handsome.”
• “He really does look like Cha Eunwoo.”
• “He looks like a mix between Cha Eunwoo and Kim Jihoon.”

Given the early interest, the rookie group seems poised for a strong start in the competitive fifth-generation scene.