(G)I-DLE highlights the value of their unique identity.
(G)I-DLE (Miyeon, Minnie, Soyeon, Yuqi, Shuhua) releases their new digital single ‘Mono (Feat. skaiwater)’ on various music sites today at 6 PM KST, marking their first full group activity of the year.
‘Mono (Feat. skaiwater)’ delivers a message about focusing on one’s inner essence rather than external opinions, expressed in (G)I-DLE’s distinctive musical style. Its previously revealed minimal sound and sophisticated visuals have piqued the curiosity of domestic and international listeners. The music video teaser has already climbed QQ Music’s Korea music video chart, proving its buzz even before release.
This new song marks (G)I-DLE’s debut collaboration on a group track with an external artist. British rapper skaiwater, known for his distinctive voice, features on the track, showcasing a new musical synergy with (G)I-DLE.
The third concept photo, released ahead of the song’s debut, features monochrome portrayals of each member holding hands, conveying the song’s meaning. The music video is anticipated to showcase dynamic performances with a mega crew, promising an intense visual experience.
(G)I-DLE shared their thoughts on ‘Mono (Feat. skaiwater)’ in a Q&A session ahead of its release:
Q: Can you explain ‘Mono (Feat. skaiwater)’ and its key listening points?
Minnie: It’s a song about focusing on the essence by removing all effects. I hope listeners will pay attention to the addictive melody and meaningful lyrics.
Soyeon: This minimal song still embodies (G)I-DLE’s unique color. We hope you listen closely to the styling and distinct vocal traits that only (G)I-DLE can deliver. The lyrics are also very appealing.
Shuhua: The song’s simplicity allows it to resonate as it is. I believe its message can be conveyed without explicit explanation.
Q: How do you feel about resuming group activities in Korea after a long break since your 8th mini-album ‘We are’?
Miyeon: I’m excited and greatly looking forward to it. I hope 2026 will be a year where we can present many stages and excellent music!
Minnie: I’m incredibly excited and eager to share this great song with Neverland soon. We worked hard on our performance, so I hope everyone enjoys it.
Yuqi: I’m really excited! I’ll work hard and hope it performs well. It’s truly a great song with a fantastic concept.
Q: What aspects did each of you focus on most while preparing ‘Mono (Feat. skaiwater)’?
Miyeon: Since the song is minimal, I believed visual and vocal concentration were crucial, so I paid extra attention to those aspects.
Minnie: I recall endlessly modifying parts and re-recording until the perfect vocal delivery was achieved. We all worked hard on the performance, and I even changed my look by removing my bangs. I also worked out diligently.
Soyeon: We typically present glamorous songs as title tracks, but this time we’ve taken on a minimal song.
Yuqi: The performance style is distinct. Many parts required synergy with the dancers, so we practiced extensively!
Shuhua: I focused heavily on pronunciation to ensure the meaning of the English lyrics was clearly delivered.
Q: Rapper skaiwater, who is gaining attention in the global hip-hop scene, participated in the feature. What synergy did you anticipate?
Soyeon: I felt skaiwater’s unprejudiced style and lyrics matched well with us. I hope this becomes a fantastic piece of music.
Q: Are there any memorable episodes from shooting the ‘Mono (Feat. skaiwater)’ music video, or any points not to be missed?
Miyeon: The process of coordinating with the dancers was truly enjoyable. Working on many shoots together made us feel like a team. I am very grateful for their collaboration.
Minnie: We filmed with foreign dancers, and they were all very unique and charming. One was Thai, and I even made a new friend. Every scene from start to finish is a must-see!
Soyeon: Please pay close attention to how each of us moves and what is expressed in the black-and-white scenes.
Yuqi: It had been a while since I danced intensely, and shooting it was a lot of fun. I personally love how minimal the music and music video are.
Shuhua: Don’t miss the moments where members appear amidst the mega crew performances!
Q: What are your thoughts on your upcoming fourth world tour, which kicks off with the February concert in Seoul?
Soyeon: We are preparing diligently for the world tour. It will be truly distinct from previous concerts, featuring a completely different nuance and performance. We’ve rearranged every song, and we hope for a great turnout.
Yuqi: There are many performances I’m eager to showcase. We’re preparing diligently, so I hope you’ll look forward to it with excitement. Please come and join us!
Shuhua: I’m very excited to meet fans from various regions after such a long time. We’ll deliver fantastic performances, so I hope fans will look forward to it!
Q: Could you please share a message for Neverland, who has eagerly awaited the full (G)I-DLE?
Miyeon: Neverland! We’ll come to meet you very soon. Please wait just a little longer. We love you! We’re diligently preparing to show you a more mature side and more exciting performances, so please look forward to the concert!
Minnie: Neverland, I’ve missed you immensely. We’ve prepared this single thoroughly, reflecting the long time you’ve waited, so please listen to it often and enjoy the performance. I want to meet you soon. I love you all very much!
Soyeon: Our Neverland, thank you for always waiting so patiently and loving our music when it’s released. We’ll strive to become (G)I-DLE who can repay your support with an even cooler image.
Yuqi: Neverland, you can definitely have high expectations for (G)I-DLE’s comeback. We’ll show you something truly unique, so please give us lots of love!
Shuhua: Neverland, thank you for waiting. We’ve worked exceptionally hard, so I hope you’ll show us a lot of love!
