: In the rap verse, Soyeon addresses the prejudice that women who "swear" must also "smoke" or fit a specific look to be valid. By claiming the "Tomboy" label while still wearing feminine clothing in the music video, the group asserts that "Tomboy" is an attitude , not just a fashion choice.
: The outro lyrics— "It's neither man nor woman, just me I-DLE" —summarize the group's desire to be seen as individuals and artists rather than being defined by gender. : In the rap verse, Soyeon addresses the
: Academics have analyzed the song as a "social semiotic" statement on postfeminism and the "girl crush" genre, focusing on collective empowerment and sisterhood. : Academics have analyzed the song as a
: During promotions, the group frequently omitted the "G" (standing for "Girl") to emphasize their identity as simply "I-DLE" and to distance themselves from gendered labels. Visual Symbolism in the Music Video it blends elements
Released as the lead single of their first studio album, I NEVER DIE , "TOMBOY" marked a pivotal moment for (G)I-DLE as they transitioned into a five-member group. Musically, it blends elements, characterized by gritty guitar riffs and an unapologetic, rebellious attitude. Core Themes and Lyrics Analysis
: It was a major commercial success, achieving a "Perfect All-Kill" in South Korea and peaking at number one on the Gaon Digital Chart for multiple weeks.
The music video employs a "noir" and "vicious" concept to represent their resistance against patriarchy.