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 SHUHUA, whose mysterious charm and striking elegance have made her one of the group’s most captivating members.

A Mysterious Presence with Effortless Elegance SHUHUA

Knit Dress ¥336,000 / Boots ¥185,900 / Bangle ¥77,000 (All by Burberry)

—This is your first appearance in CLASSY. Could you introduce yourself?

I’m SHUHUA, the youngest member of i-dle. I love dogs and animals.

—Which i-dle song would you recommend to CLASSY. readers?

I’d love everyone to listen to ‘Mono (Feat. skaiwater)’ while paying attention to the lyrics. There’s a line that says, “Cause love is louder in Mono”, and I think it’s something many people will relate to. Whenever I listen to this song, it gives me courage and lifts my spirits as well.

—When do you feel most proud to be part of i-dle?

I feel it every time we perform a concert. Being able to stand on stage and perform songs that we created ourselves always makes me feel incredibly proud.

—Have you ever felt overwhelmed by trying too hard to live up to other people’s expectations?

I try not to worry too much about other people’s expectations. That’s why I spend a lot of time preparing and practicing, so I can build the confidence I need in myself.

—When do you think, “I want to continue being part of i-dle”?

Every time a concert ends, I find myself thinking, “Maybe I could have done even better.” I want to keep performing until the day I can truly walk off the stage feeling completely satisfied with my performance.

—Finally, do you have a message for your fans in Japan who are looking forward to seeing you perform?

We had the chance to see our NEVERLAND in Japan last year, and we’re so excited to meet you again. We’ll bring you an even more wonderful performance this time, so please look forward to it!

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.