Celebrating their first anniversary, K-pop group IFI is setting their sights on the international stage, including Coachella.
IFI visited the Ten Asia office in Jungnim-dong, Seoul, to discuss their third mini-album 'As if'.
The members shared their experience working with producer Lim Soo-ho, known for IU's 'Lilac'. Cassia expressed, "I felt like I grew as an artist while working on this album. We had many opportunities to share our opinions and actively engaged with the production team."
Rahee added, "We couldn't express our thoughts as much in the first and second albums, but we finally could in the third. We became stronger as artists during our break."
Tae-rin recalled, "Each member shared their stories for each theme, which were reflected in the lyrics." Rahee mentioned, "We contributed a lot to the album cover design. We wanted a dreamy feel, so we organized our ideas in a PPT and shared them. Thankfully, the producers agreed, and it was implemented."
Reflecting on their first anniversary on the 8th, Tae-rin said, "The most memorable moment was performing at 'KCON LA' last year. Even though the audience didn't know us, they cheered and sang along. It made me want to perform on bigger stages."
Won Hwa-yeon shared, "Our fan concert in Taiwan was amazing. Fans prepared a surprise video for us, and I was moved to tears." Miyu added, "I always dreamed of performing for our fans, and it came true."
Won Hwa-yeon also addressed member Sasha's hiatus in March, saying, "With our main vocalist absent, I practiced hard to contribute to the team. We worked together to fill Sasha's spot." Cassia noted, "Adjusting from a six-member to a five-member formation was challenging, but we've adapted."
Won Hwa-yeon expressed admiration for solo artist Choi Yena, saying, "I often watched her videos and challenges. We met during her 'I Hate Being Nice' promotions and did a challenge together. She remembered our 'NERDY' challenge and asked if we were doing okay, which was touching."
The members aim for a music show win with this comeback. Won Hwa-yeon said, "I want to do an encore live. Seeing other artists hold trophies and celebrate looks like a dream. I believe we can do a great live performance too." Miyu and Rahee echoed, "We hope our songs are played everywhere." Cassia added, "Beyond music shows, we want to chart on major music platforms and aim for number one this year."
IFI was named one of NME's '100 Essential Emerging Artists for 2026' and their second album's title track 'r u ok?' ranked third in '2025's Best K-Pop Songs'.
Won Hwa-yeon said, "We heard the news at the end of the year, and it was unexpected, making us very happy. We hope to be recognized on the Billboard charts as well." Tae-rin added, "It felt like a dream. We wonder how far we can go and hope to perform at Coachella and top the Billboard charts."
Miyu shared, "I was worried if people would like 'r u ok?' because of its unique style. Seeing it recognized by NME made me realize it wasn't just us who liked it."
IFI's third EP 'As if' explores questions everyone has pondered. It includes five tracks, with the title song 'Hazy(Daisy)' featuring energetic rhythms and easy-listening vibes.
IFI's EP 'As if' will be released on various music platforms at 6 PM on the 15th.
Min-kyung Lee, Ten Asia Reporter 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr