Virtual K-pop Stars and Defamation: A Legal Precedent

A groundbreaking legal decision has been made in South Korea regarding virtual K-pop idols. The court ordered a social media user to pay damages for defaming Plave, a popular K-pop group whose members are virtual characters created using motion-capture technology.

The case arose when someone posted derogatory comments about Plave online. Despite the group members being virtual, the court ruled that attacks on these avatars extend to the real performers behind them. This decision sets a precedent for protecting virtual entertainers from online harassment.

Plave, which debuted in 2023, has gained significant popularity, boasting over a million YouTube followers and winning major music awards. This case highlights the growing importance of virtual idols in the K-pop industry and the need for legal protection in the digital age.