This idol captivates fans like no other. Who can match their perfection?
Meet office worker 'A,' a self-proclaimed veteran idol fan with 20 years of experience, who has now become a virtual idol evangelist, touting their flawless visuals and music, free from scandals or controversies. Initially mocked by coworkers for supporting virtual idols, 'A' has now converted them to fans. Cultural critic Kim Heon Sik explains that virtual idols' pristine visuals allow fans to solely focus on their music, making them the ultimate choice for dedicated fandom.
Enter the virtual idol era, where these digital stars are making significant waves in music and sales, challenging real K-pop idols. Advancements in AI and XR have enabled virtual idols to host offline fan meetings and live concerts, revolutionizing the entertainment industry.
Leading the charge is PLAVE, a five-member group introduced by virtual IP startup Vlast. Through cutting-edge technology like the Unreal Engine and motion capture, PLAVE delivers dynamic K-pop performances, shattering records with their third mini-album, 'Caligo Part 1.' Boasting over a million first-week album sales and chart-topping hits, PLAVE is rewriting the rules of idol success.
Their secret? Simply put, "good music." Fans like 'B' attest to PLAVE's irresistible appeal, combining stunning visuals and addictive tunes that leave no room for hesitation in becoming a devoted supporter.
With advertisers clamoring to partner with virtual idols, these digital darlings are cashing in on their fame. Collaborations with top brands like Lotte Mart and DooJjim have led to instant sellouts, proving that virtual idols hold a unique allure for consumers.
Industry experts predict that the influence of virtual idols will only continue to grow, transcending boundaries and redefining the landscape of music, advertising, and the metaverse.
In the age of virtual idols, the possibilities are endless. Get ready to be amazed by the phenomenon that is reshaping the entertainment industry.