IHOTEU (이호테우) was a South Korean live-idol trio formed from former Denpamaru! members Negi, Mina, and Amu. The group officially debuted with a live concert titled “IHOTEU DEBUT LIVE: Voyage to the Unknown” on May 26, 2024 and followed up with their first digital single “The First Wave” just two weeks later on June 10, 2024. Their fan club was endearingly named the Ihteong Family, and their official color palette Mint Green, Yellow, and Burning Orange reflected each member’s vibrant stage persona.
Biography
- Group Name: IHOTEU
- Debut Date: May 26, 2024
- Agencies: JDB Entertainment
- Members: Negi, Mina, and Amu
- Fandom Name: Ihteong Family (잏텡 패밀리)
IHOTEU Official SNS
IHOTEU Members
Negi (Leader)
Stage Name: Negi (네기/ねぎ)
Birthday: May 2
Nationality: Korean
X(Twitter): @IHOTEU_NEGI
TwitCasting: @negiroid39c5bb
Instagram: @mintroid39c5bb
Naver Blog: @mintroid39c5bb
Linkfly: @39c5bb
Mina
Stage Name: Mina (미나/みな)
Birthday: May 26
Nationality: Korean
X(Twitter): @IHOTEU_MINA
TwitCasting: @_minanoM1NA
Instagram: @_minanom1na
Naver Blog: @minano_m1na_
Amu
Stage Name: Amu (아무/明夢)
Birthday: January 29
Nationality: Korean
X(Twitter): @genkki_amu
TwitCasting: @genkki_amu
Instagram: @hya_31_
Naver Blog: @starwsm
Music & Concept Journey
IHOTEU’s discography showcased a captivating evolution:
- June 10, 2024: Digital Single – The First Wave (“Asphyxia,” “Wave”)
- July 26, 2024: The Second Wave – Digital single “Over”
- Oct 11, 2024: 1st EP – a Light in the Fog: added texture with remastered hits and new tracks like “Blaze” and “Nostalgia”
- Nov 17, 2024: The Third Wave – “Prelude” & “Solitude”
- Feb 1, 2025: Fourth Wave – “Nonfiction”
- Mar 14, 2025: Eskhatos. – featured the haunting title track
- Jun 1, 2025: 2nd EP – Map of Vanishing Stars, layering atmospheric interludes and emotional releases (“Change (觉醒)”)
The group’s thematic concept depicting a journey through light, emotion, and introspection was artfully conveyed across singles and EPs, establishing a unique sonic identity unparalleled among live idol trios.
Rise and Disbandment
IHOTEU swiftly built a passionate following through their unique concept, heartfelt performances, and a growing discography that showcased both vulnerability and creative depth. The bond with fans affectionately called the Ihteong Family was central to their identity, with each release feeling like a new chapter in an evolving story. Their blend of live-idol authenticity and artistic narrative had many believing they were poised for a long and meaningful career.
However, on June 17, 2025, just over a year after their debut, IHOTEU officially disbanded following reports of an inappropriate personal relationship between one member and Lee Kang-hee, CEO of JDB Entertainment. The incident, seen as a serious breach of professional ethics, shattered the trust between the group, the agency, and fans. Though the agency did not name the member involved, the damage was irreversible.
IHOTEU offered a brief but rich chapter: a trio unified by live-performance spirit and artistic clarity cut short by controversy, yet unforgettable in its journey.
