i-dle drops the brackets and “G” to embrace a new identity that challenges gender norms, signalling a revolutionary shift in K-pop

K-pop has long been a stage for fierce performances and unrelenting artistry, but one of its most revolutionary girl groups is shifting paradigms once again. Formerly known as (G)I-DLE, the group has shed both the brackets and the “G”, now embracing the name i-dle across all platforms. This change is a statement about freedom, fluidity, and the deconstruction of gender norms in an industry that often confines women to defined roles.

This change reflects their move toward a more inclusive fluid identity, free from the traditional “girl group” label. What began as (G)I-DLE is now simply i-dle, a name that speaks to their individuality and the evolving nature of their artistry. 

The Silent ‘G’: Gender Norms and Industry Expectations

The decision to drop the “G” and brackets from their name is a direct challenge to traditional gender norms in the K-pop industry. The “G” in (G)I-DLE once tied them to the expectations associated with girl groups—from their music style to their image.

Rather than conform to labels like “girl” or “woman,” the group is reclaiming their narrative and celebrating their individuality. 

The Origins of ‘Idle’ and the Power of Parentheses

According to this source, Soyeon, the group’s leader, shared that the original name, Idle Song, had come to her during the production of their second digital single, but it was soon recognised that the English word “idle” did not align with their intentions. The term can carry negative connotations, such as laziness or avoidance of work, hardly an image that fits with their dynamic artistry. Enter the parentheses and the addition of “G” in (G)I-DLE, which was meant to stand for “girl,” but more importantly, highlighted the silent “G” as a declaration: they are much more than any singular identity, much more than “girl” can encompass.

This transformation also comes at a pivotal moment for the group, as they mark their 7th anniversary with the release of two mini-albums. The first, Special Mini Album, is set to drop on 2 May, followed by their eighth official mini-album on 19 May. Fans have already been given a taste of what’s to come, with a teaser featuring “(G),” a track that hints at the evolution of their sound, remixing elements from their debut single LATATA.

Solo, Not Separate: Artistic Growth Beyond the Group

In addition to their group’s return, i-dle has been exploring solo projects, with Minnie releasing her debut solo album HER in January and Yuqi following suit with a digital single Radio (Dum-Dum) in March. These individual pursuits signal the members’ continued evolution as artists, free from the constraints of group identity or gender.

In their ongoing journey, the group continues to redefine what it means to be a woman in K-pop and, perhaps more importantly, to exist beyond the confines of gender altogether.