IVE talks first US tour, finding self-love and not being afraid to 'challenge' themselves
K-pop girl group IVE members possess distinctive traits – confidence, boldness and strength, to name a few. The group's name, a contraction of "I have," epitomizes the group's ethos as members Gaeul, Yujin, Rei, Wonyoung, Liz and Leeseo seek and celebrate self-love.
"The most important and key things of our songs is loving ourselves," Wonyoung, 19, told USA TODAY. "If you're worrying about something and if you want encouragement from someone, we could do it (through) our songs."
IVE made its way onto the music scene in late 2021, meteorically rising to become a staple in today's K-pop landscape. Their studio album, EP and single albums have all peaked at No. 1 on South Korea's Circle Album chart and the group has received various accolades, including Song of the Year, Best Female Group and Rookie of the Year.
2024 marks the third anniversary of IVE's debut and this year is already shaping to be another pivotal one.
The group recently released their first English-language single "All Night" in collaboration with American rapper Saweetie. And IVE is embarking on the U.S. leg of their first world tour, including stops in Los Angeles, Atlanta and Newark, New Jersey.
"We're really excited for it, so we hope that you'll stay tuned," said Gaeul, 21.
IVE embarks on its first US tour
On Wednesday, IVE kicks off their first U.S. jaunt as part of the "Show What I Have" world tour. The group is set to perform in six cities across America.
The first show will be at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. The tour wraps March 29 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
The members are eager to tour the U.S., with the group's leader Yujin saying she's "really looking forward to it." Liz, 19, shared how she wants to visit each city's attractions and Leeseo, 17, echoed similar sentiments.
In terms of the shows, DIVE (the name for IVE's fans) can expect elevated performances mixed with IVE's signature flair.
"Some of the songs we reproduce and remake just for our world tour," said Wonyoung. "Also some units are preparing for brand new songs to perform." The tour as a whole highlights IVE's growth as artists, tackling different and varied stages.
The members cannot wait to interact and meet their fans in the states. "I want all of our DIVEs to get a lot of energy from us," said Yujin, 20.
Defining IVE's artistry and sonic identity
From "Baddie" to "I AM", the group's tracks underscore themes of individuality and conviction. The members know who they are and what they have, spotlighting their individual charms and talents.
IVE's recent six-track mini album "I'VE MINE" featured three singles, "Either Way", "Off the Record" and "Baddie". Each dives deeper into the concept of self. Ultimately, they construct a reality of IVE – a group who is unapologetically themselves and unafraid to confront norms and try new things.
"I think that 'IVE MINE' album represents that we can do everything, every color, every song," said Yujin. "From now on, we want to challenge (ourselves) to (do) more song genres."
Moving forward, the members want to experiment with their sound. Wonyoung wants to try a more rock sound, while Leeseo wishes to explore a style that is "grand and gorgeous."
No matter what they do, the group remains strong to its identity and messages. "I wish that IVE could be explained with the word IVE; that no one can be able to replace us," said Gaeul.
IVE members reflect on growth
Over the last almost three years, the members have grown very close, said Wonyoung. "I feel like we're more related to each other than before."
During this time, IVE has evolved not only as a group, but as individuals. Yujin shared how she's gained a deeper appreciation for music. Rei, 20, has become unafraid to express herself and try new things.
Leeseo, who debuted at just 14 years old, noted how she's matured. This growth reflects in other members. Gaeul said she's learned how to love herself and others.
"Before my debut, I wasn't as confident in myself," she explained. But as IVE has come into their own, so has Gaeul. "I began to enjoy what I do and I want to return that love to our fans."
This message resonates throughout IVE, who has a deep appreciation for DIVE. Liz hopes to give back the love she receives from their fans.
"I have that desire to return it," she said. "I feel like I am growing through that."