i-dle’s Yuqi has issued an apology following backlash over a recent comment about using personal funds to purchase concert tickets.

On May 19, during a press conference celebrating the release of i-dle’s eighth mini album "We are", Yuqi addressed the issue, saying, “I’m sorry. When I go on variety shows, I tend to raise the energy to be funny. Please don’t misunderstand.”

The controversy stems from a recent YouTube show appearance alongside fellow member Minnie. During the segment, MC Jang Do Yeon asked Minnie, “I heard you spent 10 million won of your own money to invite 100 acquaintances to the concert. Was that your own fan section?” In response, Yuqi expressed frustration on Minnie’s behalf, stating: “What I don’t understand is, it’s our concert but we have to buy tickets with our own money.” She added, “We only get four complimentary tickets per member, and the rest we have to pay for ourselves.”

Her remarks quickly sparked criticism from fans and netizens, many of whom noted the difficulty of securing tickets even with money and questioned whether her comments implied preferential treatment.

Yuqi later clarified her intent: “It’s not that I don’t care about the fans. Obviously, we can’t hold concerts without them. I saw all the comments. I’m truly sorry—that wasn’t my intention. I was just joking about our company being stingy. Honestly, I can confidently say I always take good care of our fans. I just wanted to poke fun at Cube Entertainment.”

She added, “This made me realize I need to be more careful with my words. Please don’t misunderstand. If any fans were hurt, I sincerely apologize.”

Leader Soyeon also voiced her support for Yuqi, stating, “Yuqi is someone who really cares about the fans. I think she was just trying to be funny because it was a variety show.”

"We are" features six tracks, including the title song “Good Thing” and the pre-release single “Girlfriend.” Other songs include “Love Tease,” “Chain,” “Unstoppable,” and “If You Want.” All members of (G)I-DLE took part in the album’s creation, which marks a new beginning under the theme of “us.”

The title track “Good Thing”—written and composed by Soyeon—follows “Girlfriend” and showcases i-dle’s signature confidence and catchy hooks. “Girlfriend” delivers a message of comfort to a friend going through heartbreak.

i-dle's "We are" was released on May 19 at 6 PM KST on various music platforms.