Summer is the loudest season in the K-pop scene, and even acts without physical forms have not missed the chance to shine as the warmer months approach.

From a World Cup-themed rock song to a dance practice video, a number of virtual idol groups have released works in recent weeks.

On May 10, virtual boy band Tessar — Xero, Kaze, Rai — released its digital single “Alle Korea,” a cheering anthem marking Korea’s participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, according to its agency Tank ENM.


Centering on its rock band identity, Tessar's upcoming track is set to feature an easy-to-hum chorus and is loaded with explosive energy, which hopes to turn the spirit of cheering into a real-world celebration, the agency said.

On Wednesday, another virtual idol group, MiiWAN released its pre-debut single “Pluma” and its corresponding music video on several music platforms. The track embodies the meaning of a feather rising lightly into the air, a metaphor the agency said reflects the “members’ journey of growth. The group is set to make its official debut in June.

MiiWAN is a virtual idol group jointly produced by IPX, Abyss Company and Afun Interactive. IPX is a digital IP platform company formerly known as Line Friends.

Another virtual idol group B: Dawn released a dance practice video for its debut single “Beom,” according to its agency DURI Entertainment on May 12. The group released the music video for “Beom” on May 6 and made its official debut through Korea’s leading online platform Naver on the same day.

The members of B: Dawn appear in casual outfits — much like real K-pop idols, except that they are animated.

“The dance practice video will present another aspect of B: Dawn’s performance that is different from what was portrayed in its music video,” its agency said. It also pledged to keep showcasing the group’s music and underlying universe through a range of content.

Some virtual idols are employing unconventional and groundbreaking themes and imagery to gain popularity and earn attention.

GRIM Production, the agency behind subculture-themed virtual girl group Space Horror, released celebratory merchandise to mark the release of the group’s eponymous single, “ Space Horror.”


BY LEE SOO-JUNG [lee.soojung1@joongang.co.kr]