IU says she used to be “daunted” by the idea of collaborating with international artists

South Korean singer and actress IU has discussed her thoughts on collaborating with global artists.

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Earlier this week, Billboard named IU the Korean representative of its ‘Global No. 1’ artist series. In an accompanying interview, the musician spoke about her changing attitude towards working with artists outside of Korea.

Since her debut in 2008, IU has only collaborated with other South Korean artists, despite her popularity internationally. “In the past, I received many amazing offers, but the idea of collaborating with artists who spoke different languages felt daunting,” she shared.

The singer added that, at the time, she had “turned down those opportunities”, but that she “[doesn’t] feel the same way anymore”. Instead, IU explains that she is now “much more open to the idea of working with global artists”.

Elsewhere in the interview, the singer also commented on the popularity of K-pop abroad. “As a K-pop listener myself, I see how each group’s unique identity is cherished and upheld, which makes them so special,” she shared. “Of course, the music is top-notch, but the visual elements and storytelling also define K-pop culture.”

IU added that she was sometimes “envious” of K-pop groups because of the “distinct characters and worlds” they are able to present in their music and onstage.

While the singer later shared that she plans to focus on acting projects in 2025, she revealed that she already has new music in the works. “Fans won’t have to wait too long for something fresh,” said IU.

IU’s most recent release was her ninth EP ‘The Winning’, which she dropped this February alongside the singles ‘Love Wins All’, ‘Shopper’ and ‘Holssi’. Its lead single ‘Love Wins All’ has since been named one of NME’s 25 Best K-pop Songs of 2024.