PLAVE is a South Korean virtual boy group formed in 2023 by the company VLAST. The group consists of five animated members — Yejun, Noah, Bamby, Eunho, and Hamin — portrayed by real performers using motion capture technology. The name “PLAVE” combines Play and Rêve (French for “dream”), symbolizing the fusion of imagination and music. They debuted in March 2023 with the single album “ASTERUM” and quickly became a K-pop phenomenon.

PLAVE is the first virtual idol group to win on music shows and appear on international charts such as the Billboard Global 200. Their success demonstrates how virtual artists are increasingly becoming part of the mainstream music scene. PLAVE stands out for blending music, technology, and digital storytelling.

Their performances are created with real-time graphics and motion tracking, allowing fans to experience them as fully virtual idols. The real performers’ identities remain anonymous, the focus is on the characters and their digital world. With tours, high album sales, and a growing fanbase called PLLI, PLAVE is now considered a pioneer of the virtual K-pop movement. Their rise also raises interesting questions about authenticity, technology, and the future of music and fandom.