K-POP Revived Through Real-Time Motion Capture Technology: Expansion of the Virtual Idol Market Globally

The K-POP virtual idol market is entering a new phase driven by real-time motion capture technology and artificial intelligence solutions. The rookie virtual idol group SKINZ has gained attention as a K-virtual idol created using real-time motion capture technology alongside proprietary AI solutions. SKINZ performed on the opening stage of “Entertech, Seoul 2025,” a creative industry convergence festival held at Seoul’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza from the 19th to the 21st. Organized by the city of Seoul, this event aims to expand the boundaries of the creative industry by integrating K-content with advanced technologies such as AI, extended reality (XR), and virtual idols. SKINZ is rapidly advancing onto the global stage after making its debut at Tokyo Dome in Japan. During the festival, they engaged with visitors through busking performances and interactive exhibits, breaking down the barriers between virtual and real worlds to establish themselves as global artists. On the 20th and 21st, they held busking performances starting at 4 p.m. and utilized various features such as hologram photo zones and one-on-one greetings to strengthen connections with fans. GALAXY Corporation, an AI entertainment company owned by G-DRAGON, is also accelerating its entry into this market by hosting virtual K-POP group auditions. Last week, the company held its first global virtual artist audition at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, with over 100 pre-selected candidates from around the world participating. These 100 candidates were chosen during the online application phase and then competed in a second live audition to secure a chance to join the company’s virtual K-POP group. GALAXY Corporation’s virtual artists will operate as avatars created using cutting-edge AI technology, based on the voices, movements, and personalities of real performers. This makes it a significant milestone, as it represents the first time a virtual group is formed through public auditions, unlike previous virtual artists such as PLAVE and MAVE who were selected internally by existing companies. While other firms used internal selection methods for their virtual groups, GALAXY Corporation has adopted an open audition system for the global stage. During the auditions, candidates used motion capture technology to accurately record their movements, with their performances captured via cameras behind the stage. Dancers, rappers, and singers demonstrated their skills by covering songs by various artists including Justin Bieber and NewJeans, with even complex moves like backflips being perfectly captured by the avatars. Song Kyu-hyuk, head of GALAXY Corporation’s IP MUSIC team, said, “The idea for virtual groups originated from the concept that idols can live forever thanks to technological advancements. Our goal is to discover permanent artists who transcend the limitations of time.”