: Academics have analyzed the song as a "social semiotic" statement on postfeminism and the "girl crush" genre, focusing on collective empowerment and sisterhood.
: 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. : Academics have analyzed the song as a
: 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. : It was a major commercial success, achieving
: The members portray themselves as dolls who ultimately turn against a "Ken" doll—drugging, kidnapping, and threatening him—to symbolize their refusal to be treated as accessories. : The initial scenes with identical wigs and
: 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.
: The initial scenes with identical wigs and "locked" shoes represent how men may view women as interchangeable or "stuck" within traditional roles. Critical and Commercial Impact
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