PLAVE Becomes First Virtual K-pop Group to Sell Over 1 Million Albums in First Week
Photo by PLAVE weverse
Virtual K-pop group PLAVE has made history by becoming the first of its kind to sell over 1 million copies of an album in its first week. Their third mini album, Caligo Pt.1, sold 1,038,308 units during the first week of release, according to Hanteo Chart.
PLAVE debuted in 2023 and has quickly gained a large global fanbase. The group is made up of five virtual characters, powered by real performers using motion capture technology. Despite being digital, they sing, dance, and interact with fans just like traditional K-pop idols.
The music video for their songs has reached over 470 million views on YouTube, and the group recently entered the Billboard Global 200 chart. Their lead track “Dash” debuted at No. 3 on Korea’s Circle Digital Chart and also won first place on the music show Show Champion.
PLAVE is signed under VLAST, a company backed by major entertainment players like HYBE and YG Plus. The group is being seen as a new kind of K-pop idol, one that mixes technology and performance in a way that connects deeply with fans.
This success proves that virtual idols are no longer just a concept — they are a growing part of the global music scene.
