Group rebranding, full member songwriting, and a genre of their own
"This album is all about carving out a new genre—our own." (Soyeon)
K-pop powerhouse I-DLE is turning a page. After seven years of albums themed around "I," the group is now embracing we. With a new team name and creative reset, their 8th mini album We are marks the start of a bold, unified era.
🎤 New name, same fire: I-DLE reintroduces themselves
On May 19, I-DLE held a press conference for We are at The Great Hall in Josun Palace Seoul. It's their first comeback in 10 months since I SWAY and the first under the rebranded name I-DLE (formerly (G)I-DLE).
"I never really understood why our group name had '(G)' in front," said Miyeon. "It finally feels like we found our true identity."
The group celebrated their re-signing with CUBE Entertainment, calling it a "fresh start." Shuhua reflected, "I thought to myself, 'I'm glad I stuck with this team.' With these members, I want to keep making music."
💿 'We are'—More personal, more powerful
The album includes six tracks:
- Good Thing (title track)
- Girlfriend
- Love Tease
- Chain
- Unstoppable
- You Can Still (그래도 돼요)
All members took part in songwriting and composition. "With I AM, we each told our personal stories," explained Soyeon. "Now, we're saying 'We are I-DLE.' It's a group statement."
They previewed the pre-release single Girlfriend, which quickly topped Korean and Chinese charts. It's a warm, comforting message to a friend post-breakup, delivered with I-DLE's signature edge.
🎧 'Good Thing'—Throwback vibes, modern edge
The title track Good Thing is a high-energy track laced with 2009-2010 style autotune and bouncy 8-bit retro sounds. "It's a nostalgic vibe with a modern twist," said Soyeon.
"The first time I heard it, I felt like I got electrocuted," laughed Yuqi. "It's a genre we've never done before—and it's impactful from start to finish."
The point choreography? Easy and fun. "Just give two thumbs up," Soyeon teased, referencing the cheeky retro-style dance.
🌟 I-DLE writes their own genre
For the first time, Shuhua contributed lyrics (You Can Still), and Miyeon composed a track (Unstoppable). "I was nervous, but Soyeon said she'd help, so I gained courage," said Shuhua.
"I worried that Unstoppable might not sound like an I-DLE song," Miyeon admitted, "but once everyone's vocals came in—it felt just right."
Styling-wise, Soyeon made the biggest leap: she shaved her head. "I've always liked choosing hair that matches the album," she said. "This time, the buzzcut felt perfect." Though nervous at first, she added, "Now I love it."
💬 New look, same confidence
I-DLE has racked up massive hits like TOMBOY, Nxde, Queencard, and Klaxon. Still, they say they don't let pressure define their path.
"Of course the pressure is always there," Soyeon admitted. "But we try to stay grounded. We focus on exploring new things and making music that's fun and true to us."
What about criticism over the contrast between their feminist themes and sometimes provocative lyrics? "We don't write music to teach anyone anything," said Soyeon. "We just express how we're feeling in that moment. The message may change, but I'll always stay honest."
🗓️ We are is now available on all major streaming platforms.
[Photo Credit: CUBE Entertainment]
