The floating hook of “LOVE DIVE” and the soaring chorus of “I AM” offer two different introductions to IVE: one mysterious, the other expansive. Together, they capture the appeal of a group whose music often makes confidence feel inviting.
If you recognize the songs but cannot yet name the six IVE members, start here. This guide connects their backgrounds, essential releases, and current activities without expecting you to understand K-pop fandom vocabulary first.
Who Is IVE?
IVE (아이브) is a six-member girl group under Starship Entertainment. The group debuted on December 1, 2021, with the single album ELEVEN and its title track of the same name. “IVE” comes from “I HAVE,” expressing confidence in what the members bring to the stage. Sony Music official profile, ORICON debut interview.
Their fans are called DIVE. You will encounter that name in fan messages and official fan-club announcements. It is a fandom identity, and enjoying the music does not require joining a paid club. ORICON fan interview.
Meet the Six IVE Members
The following roles follow Sony Music’s official profile. Additional labels such as “main dancer” or “visual” appear on fan websites, but should not automatically be treated as official positions.
| Member | Born | Role and useful background |
|---|---|---|
| An Yujin (안유진) | September 1, 2003 | Leader and vocalist; previously a member of IZ*ONE. |
| Gaeul (가을) | September 24, 2002 | Rapper and the oldest member; participated in rap writing for “ROYAL.” |
| Rei (레이) | February 3, 2004 | Rapper and vocalist; Japanese member who also participated in “ROYAL” rap writing. |
| Jang Wonyoung (장원영) | August 31, 2004 | Vocalist; previously a member of IZ*ONE. |
| Liz (리즈) | November 21, 2004 | Vocalist; listen for her contributions when exploring the group’s vocal arrangements. |
| Leeseo (이서) | February 21, 2007 | Vocalist and youngest member, sometimes described with the Korean term maknae. |
(장원영)
Sources: official member profiles, debut interview, “ROYAL” discussion.
Yujin and Wonyoung’s earlier experience is useful context, but IVE is a distinct group. Its six-person lineup matches the members introduced at debut; the current official profile lists all six.
Eight IVE Songs to Start With
This listening route moves from the debut to recent releases. The descriptions are editorial listening suggestions, rather than an official ranking.
| Song | Year | Why start here? |
|---|---|---|
| “ELEVEN” | 2021 | Hear the debut’s playful rhythmic tension and memorable change of pace. |
| “LOVE DIVE” | 2022 | Start with its airy hooks and restrained atmosphere, then watch how the choreography reinforces the song. |
| “After LIKE” | 2022 | A brighter, dance-floor entry point with immediate momentum. |
| “I AM” | 2023 | Listen for the contrast between the verses and the expansive chorus. |
| “Baddie” | 2023 | Explore a more clipped, attitude-driven side of the catalog. |
| “HEYA” | 2024 | Compare its rhythmic delivery and prominent refrain with “LOVE DIVE.” |
| “REBEL HEART” | 2025 | Add a more communal, sing-along mood to your introduction. |
| “BLACKHOLE” | 2026 | Use this track from REVIVE+ to connect the early hits with their latest full-length era. |
Release years and album associations: Starship discography, Apple Music catalog.
For a shorter introduction, try “LOVE DIVE,” “I AM,” and “BLACKHOLE,” then return to “ELEVEN.” That sequence makes the group’s range easier to hear before you explore entire albums.
Why Their Success Matters
At the 2022 MAMA Awards, IVE won Best New Female Artist, while “LOVE DIVE” won Song of the Year. The combination illustrates how quickly their early music reached beyond a debut introduction. A daesang is a major grand prize at a Korean awards ceremony; different ceremonies award different categories. Official MAMA winners.
Their music is a useful example of how an idol group can build a recognizable identity while changing its sound. Here, confidence is an artistic theme. It should not be read as a description of every member’s private personality or Korean women generally.
Latest Activities and Important Updates
As of October 1, 2026, IVE is preparing the EP Looks Can Kill: a pre-release is scheduled for October 19, followed by the EP on October 26. These are announced dates, and both releases are still upcoming. Yonhap also reports that the group recently completed its second world tour, SHOW WHAT I AM, following February’s album REVIVE+. Yonhap via The Korea Times.
In K-pop, a “comeback” usually means a new release and promotional cycle, even when an artist has remained active. Group releases should also be distinguished from individual appearances, soundtrack work, and performances involving fewer members; those activities alone do not establish a permanent subunit.
One historical update matters when reading older profiles: Rei temporarily paused activities for health reasons in April 2023. Starship announced her return in May. A temporary hiatus should not be confused with leaving the group. Official hiatus notice, return announcement.
Begin with official music videos, then compare a performance video with the studio recording. Use the agency’s announcements for schedules: short fan clips can be enjoyable, but their captions may leave out essential context.
4. FAQ
How many members does IVE have?
Six: An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, and Leeseo. All six appear in the current Sony Music profile.
Who is IVE’s leader, and who is the oldest?
An Yujin is the leader. Gaeul is the oldest member. Leadership and age are different distinctions. Official profile.
Were any IVE members in IZ*ONE?
Yujin and Wonyoung were. IVE’s debut also introduced Gaeul, Rei, Liz, and Leeseo as part of its own six-member lineup. ORICON interview.
Did Rei leave IVE?
Her April 2023 absence was a temporary health-related hiatus, and Starship announced her return on May 26, 2023. She is listed in the current official lineup. Return announcement, official profile.
What should I listen to first?
Try “LOVE DIVE” for atmosphere, “I AM” for an expansive chorus, and “ELEVEN” for the debut. These are editorial starting points, not a popularity ranking.
When is IVE’s next announced release?
At the October 1 research cutoff, a pre-release is scheduled for October 19, 2026, and Looks Can Kill for October 26. Check official announcements for changes. Yonhap report.
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