The start of 2020 was to be the dawn of a new era and the start of several much-anticipated K-Pop comebacks and world tours. The novel coronavirus abruptly halted all activities, prompting artists to exchange their live appearances for virtual experiences. Rising girl group (G)I-DLE was one of the many artists who were quickly able to adapt to the new virtual climate.
Originally the six-member group, consisting of Miyeon, Minnie, Soojin, Soyeon, Yuqi, and Shuhua, was expected to visit 32 cities for their ‘I-LAND: Who Am I’ world tour. With the health and well-being of the artists and the fans in mind, Cube Entertainment announced the rescheduling of the tour to an online concert. The “2020 (G)I-DLE ONLINE CONCERT ‘I-LAND: WHO AM I’” gives all of their fans the opportunity to attend and participate in the group’s monumental concert. Through this virtual platform, fans and artists are able to come together even though they are apart.
Kpopconcerts had a chance to speak with (G)I-DLE amidst their busy schedules to hear their thoughts on their first-ever solo concert, global connectivity, and how they seek comfort and inspiration during these trying times.
With your “2020 (G)I-DLE ONLINE CONCERT ‘I-LAND: WHO AM I’,” fans from all over the globe will be able to “attend” your solo concert, including those who may not have had a tour stop in the original world tour schedule. What are your thoughts on that? Do you feel more pressure hosting a virtual concert?
MIYEON : Since it’s our first concert, I’m very nervous and excited. It’s an online concert, so It’s upsetting to know that we can’t communicate directly with our fans. However, I’m glad that NEVERLAND around the world can comfortably enjoy. We’re practicing really hard to show you all a great performance.
MINNIE : Since it’s our first concert, I feel so nervous and worried. We are practicing hard for the concert, as I know our fans are looking forward to the online concert. I hope you all enjoy the stages we have prepared really hard.
How has the preparation for a virtual concert differed from that of a live concert? Are there any unexpected challenges that most people wouldn’t be aware of?
SOYEON: We have prepared a lot of attractive performances and glamorous stages. I want you to feel as if you are watching a movie.
YUQI : This is our first concert, so this gives a whole new feeling to us. I’m so excited.
It’s been a little over two years since your debut and you’ve accomplished so much in such a short amount of time. How have you each grown as artists since then and what has been your biggest takeaway from your experience thus far?
SOYEON: I have been thinking a lot of what we have gone through. And I have concluded to enjoy every moment given to me!
YUQI: Even after debut, we try to remind ourselves to be more like (G)I-DLE! I think we finally found the true colors of (G)I-DLE!! It is important to keep [a] modest heart and give all the effort in every action possible.
Fans showcase their support for their idols through activities such as cover songs and dances in their home countries. How does it feel to know that your music has made such an impression on people from all over the world?
SOOJIN : I saw a lot of people who covered our song[s] and performances. I couldn’t believe that so many people did it, which made me truly happy.
MIYEON : I’m really impressed by the cover video made from our fans, and thankful for the attention and love we receive about our music and performances. We are working hard to repay our fans for all the love with the best performance.
What do you do to lift up your spirits? Is there an activity that calms you? A place or a thing that makes you feel at ease?
MINNIE : Go to the rooftop or the Han River.
SOOJIN : I take a walk!
SHUHUA : Go to a place where you are alone and take a rest. I listen to music, play with my dog, and play games.
Do you each have a phrase or motto that you live by?
MIYEON : Dreams come true.
MINNIE : Live the life you have imagined.
SOOJIN : Happy with my people!
SOYEON : Let’s live a special and romantic life!
YUQI : Let’s live a good life.
SHUHUA : I am the main character of my life.
If you all could go on a trip together (for fun, not for work) where would you like to go first and why?
MIYEON : I really want to visit the U.S.
SHUHUA : I want to go to Thailand because I want to visit ‘Floating Market’ and visit MINNIE’s house.
What are some of your own personal goals in the next 5 years?
SOYEON : I want to release a self-produced solo album.
YUQI : To become an Artist who is serious about music and try hard to be good at everything.
SHUHUA : I want to try acting.
NEVERLAND turn to your music as a source of encouragement. What songs make you unconditionally happy?
MINNIE : I feel so relaxed and happy when I listen to Ryuichi Sakamoto – Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence.
SOOJIN : Lauv – Julia has been my favorite song these days!
Do you have any advice or words of encouragement for NEVERLAND during these times?
MIYEON : I hope everyone can overcome the difficult situation together. Don’t get sick until we meet face to face!
MINNIE : I enjoyed the time at home to do things that I haven’t been able to do since I was busy. I wish NEVERLAND could also find hobby during this time to effectively enjoy during this period. It can be exercising, cooking, drawing, or doing anything that you enjoy.
SOOJIN : NEVERLAND, please listen to our music and feel refreshed. Always eat well!!
SOYEON : NEVERLAND! It has been a difficult year but I hope you all stay positive and healthy! We will continue to try harder to produce music for our NEVERLAND.
YUQI : Thank you so much for waiting for us even though you must be tired and exhausted. We will see you soon!!!
SHUHUA : In this difficult situation, let’s not be discouraged and overcome it together. You are not alone. Let’s stay healthy!
“2020 (G)I-DLE ONLINE CONCERT ‘I-LAND: WHO AM I‘” will take place on Sunday, July 5 at 3:00PM (KST) and is open to all NEVERLAND to attend. Tickets can still be purchased on INTERPARK. The online concert will be available on CubeTV’s website and mobile applications (Android / iOS).
The KPC Staff would like to thank CJ Entertainment, (G)I-DLE, and Cube Entertainment for this opportunity.