PLAVE is a virtual idol band composed of real people, combining digital avatars with the talents of seasoned performers. The group has gained significant attention for its unique concept, allowing former idols to re-enter the industry while maintaining anonymity.
However, their identities were recently leaked online, revealing that most members were previously part of disbanded idol groups.
This revelation has sparked debates among K-pop fans, particularly due to accusations of misogyny stemming from past song lyrics.
Who Are the Faces Behind PLAVE?
- Yejun – Junhyuk from Topp Dogg. After his former group disbanded, he pursued a career as a singer-songwriter before joining PLAVE.
- Noa – Jaeho from HISTORY, a group that once had a popular duet with IU.
- Bambi – B-JOO, formerly a member of Topp Dogg.
- Eunho – Seo Sangwon, known for his time in Zeno.T.
- Hamin – Hyunmin from K-Tigers.
Following the leaks, a viral post emerged with the caption: “WDYM PLAVE GOT LEAKED AND ENTIRE MEMBERS ON THEIR 30S AND ALL OF THEM ARE MISOGYNISTS????????????”
This post ignited a fierce debate among K-pop fans, with some criticizing the group and others rushing to their defense.
A resurfaced song featuring lyrics perceived as misogynistic has added fuel to the controversy. The lyrics include lines such as:
“Your face with its sharp nose is worthy of a punch You’re an athlete of fakeness, with that artificial laugh As soon as you talk, b**, b*** , b***”*
These lyrics, along with derogatory terms like soybean paste b**,* have led to backlash from both Korean and international netizens.
Many have condemned the lyrics as degrading towards women, questioning whether PLAVE members should be given a platform. Some of the harshest reactions included:
1. So he’s such a loser that he can’t write lyrics unless it’s to bash women? I feel sorry for him
2. Their faces and identities are all being revealed right now ㅋㅋㅋㅋ How are they going to get out from this? ㅋㅋㅋㅋ
3. So these controversial celebrities are now hiding behind drawings to make money…ㅋ It’s my first time learning about their identity. Do they really think they’d be popular without that drawing?
4. He even used the soybean paste b*** slur in his own apology…
5. Must be easy having so many people turn a blind eye on them
However, it was later clarified that this controversial song was not from PLAVE but a decade-old track from one of the members before joining the group.
Fans argue that being in their 30s does not disqualify them from being idols. Some insist that blaming all members for the actions of one is unfair.
Fans emphasize that the group was formed to give former idols a fresh start without being judged based on their past appearances or controversies.
This controversy raises broader questions about cancel culture, accountability, and the ethical implications of anonymity in the idol industry.
While PLAVE’s concept offers former idols a new beginning, it also brings into question whether past mistakes should define an artist’s career indefinitely.
What do you think?
