I-DLE is rolling out a full-on new chapter following their rebrand.
On Jan. 27, the group dropped the digital single "Mono (Feat. skaiwater)," marking their first Korean promotions in eight months. After focusing on solo activities in the latter half of last year, I-DLE plans to showcase moves that feel distinctly “I-DLE” this year, starting with "Mono (Feat. skaiwater)."
The group removed the “(G)I-DLE” label they debuted with―stripping out “G,” short for “GIRL,” and any gendered framing―to reaffirm an identity that resists definition by “GENDER” or any category at all. Closing the long-running “I” series that began at debut, they looked to a fresh leap with their eighth mini album, We are.
Title track "Good Thing" delivered I-DLE’s signature cool, self-assured lyrics and an addictive hook, hitting the public with something refreshingly bold. Its retro sound and writing were daring choices, and the group’s constant reinvention with each comeback has widened their musical spectrum.
Chasing change yet again, I-DLE flipped the mood with the new digital single "Mono (Feat. skaiwater)." True to their name, they defied expectations from fans and casual listeners alike―again.
Even before release, the track drew praise on the strength of its minimal, stylish beat. It signaled a new challenge for a group known for vibrant, color-saturated sounds. Once the song arrived―along with a music video featuring a mega crew―reviews called it a fully immersive experience to watch, hear, and feel.
Alongside the sonic shift, I-DLE delivered a message only they could. After championing unapologetic self-love with "TOMBOY," "Nxde," and "Queencard," they turn to “essence” on "Mono (Feat. skaiwater)."
Built around “the art of subtraction,” the track balances lean production with weighty lyrics. Lines like “Whether East or West, whether straight or gay,” “Turn the effects down, let it all fade out,” and “Play the whole world in Mono” point to where I-DLE is headed.
"Mono (Feat. skaiwater)" takes its cue from “mono,” the single-channel audio format. It’s a call to tune out outside noise and listen harder to what’s essential, delivered in I-DLE’s own musical language. In a time of growing division at home and abroad, the song centers “solidarity” through the value that fundamental love comes first.
After carving in their new name, I-DLE has now put out a song that fits it. With "Mono (Feat. skaiwater)," the group’s rebranding comes into clear focus. From a debut era where they had to prove themselves every time to now declaring “We are,” there’s every reason to listen closer to what they’re saying―and singing―today.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)