Virtual idols and K-pop in animation and games

A virtual idol performs as a 3D or 2D character instead of showing a real face. In many cases real people provide the movement and voice through motion capture, while some characters are created entirely with technology. Virtual idols may release music, appear on music shows and hold concerts like other idols. How each group works differs.

Yes. For example, PLAVE is a five-member virtual boy group under VLAST that debuted in March 2023. It is known for having real people perform the characters' movements and voices. Several other companies have also launched virtual idols. Check each group's official channels for news.

Yes, virtual idols sometimes hold concerts at large venues. Their performances are shown on big stage screens or through special video technology. Some concerts have also been broadcast live in cinemas. Etiquette and cheering are much the same as at any concert.

K/DA is a virtual girl group created by Riot Games from four League of Legends characters. It debuted with 'POP/STARS' at the opening ceremony of the 2018 League of Legends World Championship. Miyeon and Soyeon of (G)I-DLE voiced two of the characters, which drew K-pop fans' attention. It's often cited as a landmark meeting of games and K-pop.

KPop Demon Hunters is an animated film released on Netflix in June 2025. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, it follows HUNTR/X, a K-pop girl group that fights demons, and their rival boy group, the Saja Boys. Its songs became popular and drew many new people to K-pop. Check Netflix's official channels for related news.

Songs by virtual groups in animation and games are almost always recorded by real singers. Sometimes K-pop idols or producers take part, which makes headlines. The voice actor for a character's lines and the singer of their songs are often different people. Check the official credits for who's involved.

Yes, there are collaborations where K-pop artists sing a game's theme song or appear as characters in a game. Some perform at esports tournament opening ceremonies. Others involve in-game idol outfits or items. Collaborations are announced on both the game company's and the agency's official channels.

Yes, several mobile rhythm games let you tap along to K-pop songs. Some are built around a particular agency's catalog. Song lists and available countries vary by game, and some games eventually shut down. Download them from official app stores and check who the developer is.

The basics are similar: fans stream songs, cheer on music shows, buy albums and attend concerts. The difference is that fans often enjoy the characters' world and backstory as part of the experience. Trying to uncover the real people behind the characters is considered bad manners.

Yes, virtual idols have appeared on music shows with video-based stages. These are usually made with pre-produced footage or special technology. Some even compete in the weekly rankings. Whether a group appears, and in what form, depends on the program and the group.

Yes, some groups weave avatars or virtual characters resembling the members into their storyline. These characters may appear in music videos or stage visuals. Each group's setting and approach is different. Enjoy the story through official content such as music videos and teasers.

Yes, many groups create cute characters based on the members and release goods such as plush toys, stationery and everyday items. Some partner with character brands or other companies. Buy from official sellers to get genuine products. Check official channels for character names and backstories.

Yes, many webtoons feature idol protagonists, and some are based on a real group's storyline. Idols also sometimes sing webtoon OSTs. These are serialized on official webtoon platforms and often translated into several languages. Reading on official platforms supports the creators.

Yes, idols have held virtual performances or fan events on metaverse platforms and inside games. Typically fans join as avatars, watch the show and receive commemorative items. The scale and format vary by platform. Check official notices for how to take part.

Yes, virtual idols that use artificial intelligence for their faces, voices or other elements have appeared. They're made differently from virtual idols performed by real people through motion capture. How much technology is used differs by group, so refer to official explanations. They're drawing interest as a new kind of idol.

Of course. Many fans start exploring real K-pop groups after hearing K-pop songs or virtual groups in animation. Use streaming service recommendations to find songs with a similar feel. Following the real singers and songwriters who worked on the film is another good path. Any starting point is a good one.

Yes, songs by virtual groups from animation and games have been released officially and entered charts in Korea and abroad. Albums by virtual idols have also appeared on sales charts. Chart performance changes over time, so check each chart's official announcements for exact records.

Virtual idols are often very active on YouTube, fan platforms and live-streaming services. Many interact with fans through real-time broadcasts as their characters. Platforms differ by group, so follow their official channels. Don't record and repost their broadcasts without permission.

Goods for virtual groups from games or animation are usually sold through the game company's or studio's official store, or at collaboration shops. They also appear as digital items, such as character outfits inside the game. International shipping depends on the seller. Make sure unofficial products are genuine before buying.

The most important rule is never to dig up or spread personal details about the people behind the characters. Respect the official setting and storyline. Don't share paid content without permission. As with any idol, avoid comparing them with or insulting other fandoms.