Since debuting in Korea in 2023, PLAVE has quickly made their mark as one of the next-generation K-POP groups—just two years in. Even if you’re new to virtual idols, the more you learn about them, the deeper you’ll fall for their charm. In this guide, let’s dive into what makes PLAVE such a rising star in the world of K-POP!
K-POP X Virtual
Who is PLAVE?
If you’re just discovering PLAVE, start by checking out their music. One of their must-watch performances is “WAY 4 LUV” at the 2024 Weverse Con Festival. This breakout hit earned them their first No.1 on a music show and has surpassed 12 million views on YouTube. Chances are, you’ve already heard this song somewhere without even realizing it!
Debuting in March 2023, PLAVE is a five-member group consisting of Yejun, Noah, Bambi, Eunho, and Hamin. The group’s name combines “Play” and “Rêve” (meaning “dream” in French), symbolizing their mission to build a new world to achieve their dreams. PLAVE is a self-producing idol group, with all five members taking part in songwriting, composing, and choreography creation.
What makes PLAVE truly unique is that they’re not AI-generated virtual idols—they are real-time virtual idols brought to life by actual people wearing motion capture suits. Every performance you see, from singing to dancing, is done live by real humans, and that movement is instantly reflected in the members’ virtual forms.
You can see exactly how it works in this video. Many fans say they became hooked on PLAVE after watching how the group combines advanced technology with powerful performances.
When PLAVE Feels Most Real!
While their striking, anime-inspired visuals play a big part in their popularity, it’s the members’ personality and humor that truly win fans over. To stay connected, PLAVE hosts online livestreams at least twice a week.
Of course, with live broadcasts, the occasional tech glitch makes things even more entertaining—like unexpected model distortions that cause hilarious transformations on screen. The dynamic chemistry and distinct personalities of all five members bring tons of laughs, and many funny clips from these livestreams often go viral on social media.
Unlike fully AI-generated virtual idols, PLAVE is powered by real people behind the scenes—making them feel more relatable, more genuine, and ultimately more lovable.
At their recent concert at Jamsil Indoor Stadium, PLAVE surprised fans by installing an extended stage that reached into the center of the audience, allowing the members to get even closer to their fans. It was an unexpected and exciting moment for everyone there.
PLAVE concerts are a full-on visual experience, filled with cinematic effects and immersive production. With each show, the tech and storytelling keep getting better—pulling fans deeper into the PLAVE universe. Always pushing creative boundaries for their fans, PLAVE concerts leave you wondering what they'll come up with next.
PLAVE, the next big thing!
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Step inside to enjoy exclusive menu items, themed interiors, and sweet handwritten messages from the members themselves. They operate on a reservation-only basis and fills up as soon as bookings open. New slots open on the third Thursday of every month via Catch Table, so set your alarms and try for July! International fans can book through Catch Table Global. Don’t miss your chance to visit this one-of-a-kind PLAVE-themed space!
YEJUN
NOAH
BAMBY
EUNHO
HAMIN
