(G)I-DLE rebrands as i-dle for fresh start on 7th anniversary

Girl group (G)I-DLE rebrands as i-dle to mark a new chapter. Courtesy of Cube Entertainment

K-pop girl group (G)I-DLE has officially changed its name to i-dle, marking a new chapter in its career as the group celebrates its seventh anniversary.

The group announced the rebranding Thursday on its official social media channels, saying that it will now go by i-dle, dropping the “(G)” — which stood for “girl” — from its original name. Since debuting on May 2, 2018, the group had been known as (G)I-DLE.

According to the group’s agency, the removal of the “G” and parentheses symbolizes the group’s departure from gendered definitions, embracing a broader and more inclusive identity. The new name reflects the group’s intent to transcend boundaries in concept and music.

Along with the name change, i-dle also unveiled a new logo and symbol. The lowercase design forms a minimal, circular motif representing the group’s limitless potential and fluid connection. A star-shaped emblem formed by five lowercase “i” letters signifies the unity and individuality of the group’s five members.

After all five members renewed their contracts with Cube Entertainment last December, i-dle's rebranding signals more than a name change — it represents a leap toward greater artistic evolution and global ambition. The group is expected to return soon with new music showcasing its strengthened identity and creative direction.

Girl group (G)I-DLE changes name to i-dle. Courtesy of Cube Entertainment

The group has built a powerful discography since debuting with the hit track “Latata,” followed by chart-topping songs such as “Oh My God,” “DUMDi DUMDi” and “Queencard.”

Last year, they topped domestic and global charts with their second studio album’s title track “Super Lady,” while the B-side “Wife” gained belated popularity and sparked a viral trend.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.