Rookie groups CORTIS and AllDay Project marked a major milestone in their careers after taking home the Rookie Award at the 40th Golden Disc Awards with Upbit, held on January 10 at the Taipei Dome in Taiwan.
The 2026 ceremony carried historic significance, as it became the first Golden Disc Awards event ever hosted at the Taipei Dome and celebrated the prestigious K-pop awards show’s 40th anniversary. The night was smoothly guided by hosts Sung Si-kyung and actress Moon Ga-young, whose steady chemistry helped elevate the landmark event.
AllDay Project echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the unique significance of a rookie award—an honor artists can receive only once. The group extended their thanks to THEBLACKLABEL and Teddy PD, along with their fans, stating that the award motivates them to grow further as artists and performers.
Congratulations to #ALLDAYPROJECT for winning "Rookie of the Year" at the 40th Golden Disc Awards.
— demi. 🍒 (@_quatrejuinx) January 10, 2026
Another one, thank you!😉 pic.twitter.com/iXdBmJnYAK
CORTIS and AllDay Project were announced as the evening’s Rookie Award recipients, earning recognition for their impact and rapid rise within the competitive K-pop scene over the past year.
Taking the stage to accept the honor, CORTIS expressed heartfelt gratitude, calling the award a tremendous honor early in their journey. The group thanked their dedicated fans for constant support and shared appreciation for Bang Si-hyuk PD and the BigHit team, crediting them for their guidance and belief. They promised to continue delivering strong music, memorable performances, and meaningful stages going forward.
congratulations #CORTIS for winning ROTY 🥹🥹🤍 pic.twitter.com/EUaJN9XP4P
— caris (@ackermaines) January 10, 2026
The ceremony brought together a star-studded lineup of K-pop’s biggest names, including Jennie, IVE, BOYNEXTDOOR, LE SSERAFIM, Stray Kids, ATEEZ, ENHYPEN, ZEROBASEONE, and TWS, creating an electric atmosphere throughout the night. Esteemed presenters such as Song Joong-ki, Byeon Woo-seok, and Ahn Hyo-seop further highlighted the prestige of the anniversary event.
In South Korea, the awards were broadcast exclusively via Naver Chzzk, while international fans tuned in through PRIZM, allowing global audiences to witness a defining night for K-pop’s newest rising stars.
