As one of K-pop’s most distinctive self-produced groups, i-dle continues to stand out through the individuality and creativity of each member. Now in the eighth year since their debut, the group has entered a bold new chapter with a renewed name, perfectly embodying the spirit of “Challenge is Beautiful.” Through music that reflects their determination to choose their own path rather than wait to be chosen, i-dle continues to evolve.
In this exclusive interview, we speak with YUQI, whose fearless spirit and vibrant personality bring energy and momentum to the group.
The Key Player Who Embodies Freedom and Confidence
YUQI
Dress ¥1,303,500 / Shoes ¥232,100 (Reference Color) / Earrings ¥53,900 (All by Fendi)
—This is your first appearance in CLASSY. Could you introduce yourself?
I’m YUQI—my nickname is “Superstar.” I’m an energetic ENFJ, and I’m not very good at sitting still!
—Which i-dle song would you recommend to CLASSY. readers?
I’d recommend ‘Super Lady’. I try to live by the message of the lyrics myself, so I’d be happy if everyone could listen while paying attention to the words.
—As a self-produced group, when do you feel the most proud of what you’ve created together?
I take part in songwriting as well, so recording sessions are always especially rewarding for me. It’s a strange but wonderful feeling to hear demos that I recorded with my own voice being brought to life by the other members. It makes me feel really proud. After a song is released, seeing fans comment, “This sounds so YUQI,” makes me feel like I’ve truly been able to express my own style.
—Have you ever felt overwhelmed by trying too hard to live up to other people’s expectations?
I have high expectations for myself, so I’ve never really felt pressured by other people’s expectations. I always give everything I’ve got, and I think there have been many moments when we’ve made our fans feel proud of us. Even if there are times when things don’t go exactly the way I’d hoped, I still see those moments as part of who I am. So I’ve never felt overwhelmed by it.
—Finally, do you have a message for your fans in Japan who are looking forward to seeing you perform?
We’re preparing so many exciting activities, so I hope you’ll look forward to this tour as well! We’ll continue doing our very best to give back all the love and support you’ve shown us.
Why i-dle Is Loved Around the World
1. A Truly Self-Produced Group
With SOYEON playing a central role, the members take creative control over every aspect of their music—from writing, composing, and arranging songs to creating choreography and developing each album’s concept. Their debut track ‘LATATA’, earned an impressive nine Rookie of the Year awards in Korea, making it one of the most celebrated debuts by a K-pop girl group.
2. Empowering Lyrics That Encourage You to Be Yourself
By challenging social stereotypes and conventional expectations, i-dle’s music encourages listeners to embrace themselves for who they are. Their empowering messages have resonated with fans around the world. Their global hit ‘Queencard’ has surpassed 440 million views on YouTube.
3. Outstanding Performances That Captivate Audiences Worldwide
Known for their confident stage presence and exceptional performance skills, i-dle continues to captivate audiences across the globe. This year marks the group’s fourth world tour, and each member also serves as an ambassador for leading fashion and luxury brands, further establishing the group’s influence beyond music.
9th Mini Album [We made]
i-dle 9th Mini Album [We made] was released on July 6. The five-track album features the title track ‘Gimme Dat Love’, along with ‘Mono (Feat. skaiwater)’, featuring rising British artist skaiwater, the uplifting ‘Morning’, the powerful hip-hop track ‘Crow’, and the emotional R&B ballad ‘Love Is Pain’. Showcasing a brighter, more playful side of i-dle, [We made] presents a fresh pop sound unlike anything the group has explored before.
Photography: Kim Hyeongsang
Hair: Kim Sunwoo, Ryu Hyeji (WOOSUN)
Makeup: ISEUL, Choi Yuri (WOOSUN)
Styling: RIKI YAMADA
Coordinator: Song Shin Hae, Senji Fujimoto
Interview: Ayaka Sato
Editor: Keiko Suzuki
Text Adaptation: Bravoworks, Inc.
Originally published in the July 2026 issue of CLASSY. as part of the feature “What i-dle Has Taught Us.”
Information is accurate as of the magazine’s publication date. Some featured products may no longer be available.