"Once a dancer and now a star"- Fans applaud CORTIS' James for recreating BTS Jungkook's 'Seven' choreography two years after backup role

On November 12, 2025, a clip of CORTIS member James went viral after dance studio MIIM released a video on YouTube showing his journey from a trainee to a debuted idol.

The short clip began with footage of him performing as a backup dancer during BTS Jungkook’s Seven era in 2023 and transitioned to him recreating the same choreography as a K-pop star today. The captions read, “Once a dancer” and “Now a star.” It perfectly summed up his growth and dedication.

Fans were quick to react. They called it a full-circle moment. Many said it was emotional to see James go from being a supporting dancer behind Jungkook to standing confidently in his own spotlight. Others praised his performance skills and hard work, saying he truly embodied what it means to evolve in the K-pop industry.

Social media was filled with admiration for James. Fans said his progress from a trainee to a main dancer and idol under BigHit Music was emotional. An X user, @zhaoyufancokr, wrote,

"once a dancer and now a star."

They described him as passionate, talented, and proof that dedication pays off. For many, it felt symbolic that the same choreography that once introduced him to the stage is now a showcase of how far he has come.

Fans also mentioned that CORTIS’s consistent respect for BTS makes this moment even more special, since the group has often called BTS their biggest role models.

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All we know about CORTIS, James’ past work, and their admiration for BTS

Before debuting with CORTIS, James worked as a backup dancer for Jungkook’s Seven stages on Inkigayo and SUGA’s D-DAY concert. He was also credited as a songwriter and choreographer for TXT’s Deja Vu and Miracle and ILLIT’s Magnetic. His versatile experience made him one of BigHit Music’s most skilled pre-debut trainees before joining CORTIS as their main dancer and performer.

CORTIS has repeatedly shown their respect and gratitude toward BTS. Jungkook recently participated in their FaSHioN dance challenge on TikTok, to which CORTIS emotionally responded that it felt like a dream.

Earlier this year, the members bowed on camera after j-hope supported their dance challenge and did the same after Jungkook mentioned them during a Weverse Live. Leader Martin has spoken about RM’s leadership advice, while James has shared that he was inspired to pursue music after watching Jimin’s Serendipity performance.

All five members of BIGHIT's rookie boy band (Image via X/@cortis_bighit)

The group debuted in August 2025 under BigHit Music with their mini album Color Outside the Lines, featuring tracks like GO!, What You Want, and FaSHioN. They recently wrapped up their Japan promotions, performing at the Tokyo Dome’s Music Expo Live 2025 and Spotify O-WEST showcase. Their debut album continues to perform well, nearing a million sales globally.

Meanwhile, Jungkook remains one of the most influential soloists in K-pop. He is confirmed to return with Jimin in Are You Sure!? season 2 on Disney+ in December 2025.

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Fans see moments like James’ Seven recreation as proof of BTS’s lasting influence on younger idols, bridging generations of performers under the same label.

Edited by Somava