In the glittering constellation of IVE, where each member shines with distinctive brilliance, Gaeul serves as the group’s steady gravitational center. As the eldest member and main dancer, she embodies a unique combination of quiet strength, technical precision, and unwavering reliability that has become fundamental to IVE’s identity and success.
The Making of a Main Dancer
Born Kim Gaeul on September 24, 2002, Gaeul’s path to idolhood began when she joined Starship Entertainment. Her training period spanned approximately three years—one of the longest among IVE members—during which she honed the exceptional dance skills that would become her trademark. This extended preparation period allowed her to develop not just as a performer but as a leader-in-training, though IVE would eventually be led by Yujin.
Gaeul’s dancing stands out for its clean lines, powerful execution, and emotional expressiveness. Whether executing the intricate choreography of “After LIKE” or the sophisticated movements of “Love Dive,” she brings a professional polish that elevates the group’s overall performance. Her dance background encompasses various styles, from hip-hop to contemporary, giving her the versatility to master IVE’s diverse choreographic demands.
The Unspoken Leader
Though not the official leader, Gaeul naturally fulfills leadership roles through her actions and demeanor. As the oldest member, she provides quiet support to her younger colleagues, often seen guiding them during practice or offering encouragement behind the scenes. Her mature, grounded presence creates a sense of stability within the group—an especially valuable quality given IVE’s meteoric rise to fame.
Gaeul’s leadership style reflects her personality: understated but impactful. She leads by example rather than instruction, demonstrating professionalism, punctuality, and dedication in all her activities. Members have occasionally noted how Gaeul remembers small details about their schedules and preferences, showing her care through practical actions rather than grand gestures.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Gaeul (가을) |
| Birth Name | Kim Gaeul (김가을) |
| Birthday | September 24, 2002 |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Group | IVE |
| Agency | Starship Entertainment |
| Position | Main Dancer, Sub-Vocalist |
Beyond the Dance: Evolving Artistry
While dance remains her primary strength, Gaeul has shown remarkable growth in other areas. Her vocal abilities have noticeably improved since IVE’s debut, gaining stability and confidence with each comeback. Similarly, her stage presence has evolved from somewhat reserved to commanding, with fans particularly praising her ability to convey complex emotions through subtle facial expressions and body language.
Offstage, Gaeul has revealed a contrasting playful side through variety show appearances and behind-the-scenes content. Her dry wit and unexpected reactions have earned her the nickname “God Gaeul” among fans, who appreciate the contrast between her sophisticated performance persona and her relatable, sometimes quirky personality offstage.
The Foundation of IVE’s Success
In many ways, Gaeul represents the backbone of IVE—the steady foundation that allows the group’s other elements to shine brightly. Her reliability and consistency provide a crucial balance to the group’s dynamic, ensuring that no matter how high IVE soars, they remain grounded in technical excellence and professional discipline.
As IVE continues to break records and redefine success for fourth-generation girl groups, Gaeul’s role as the group’s anchor becomes increasingly valuable. Her journey from trainee to main dancer of one of K-pop’s most successful groups demonstrates that while flashy talent often grabs attention, it’s often the steady, consistent performers who provide the foundation for lasting success. With her continuous growth and unwavering dedication, Gaeul has proven herself not just as IVE’s main dancer, but as the solid ground upon which the group’s extraordinary achievements are built.
Read On Other Members:
- From Produce 48 to IVE’s Leader: The Remarkable Journey of Ahn Yujin
- From Vocal Prodigy to IVE’s Golden Voice: The Rise of Liz
- From Tokyo to Seoul: Rei’s Journey as IVE’s International Star
- From Rookie to Star: How IVE’s Leeseo Is Carving Her Own Path in K-Pop
- Beyond the Spotlight: How Wonyoung Became a Defining Star of Her Generation