A Study on Virtual Idol Fandom: Focusing on PLAVE

This study examined in-depth the formation of virtual idol fandom and its growth potential, focusing on the virtual idol group PLAVE.The main purpose of the study is to analyze how virtual idols form fandom and they can develop into sustainable industrial models.As a result of the study, the fandom structure of virtual idols was formed similar to that of K-POP idol fandom, and it was confirmed that virtual idols, unlike real idols, have stronger immersion and support from fans in that there is no risk of aging their appearance or privacy issues, and that virtual idol fandom can be maintained more stable and long-term than general idol fandom.The formation of fandom through the world view and narrative of virtual idols is not just emotional support from fans, but functions as a key element of various content businesses based on IP.Fans actively participate in expanding the world view of virtual idols, and through this, it is possible to create added value expanded to various media contents such as webtoons, animations, music, and movies.This IP expansion strategy provides the foundation for the virtual idol industry to develop into sustainable and diverse forms, and suggests that the economic value of virtual idols can be maximized, especially in the digital content industry.