Image credit: VLAST
Record-breaking virtual idols return with a sweet, love-filled collaboration featuring My Melody and Cinnamoroll.
PLAVE — the trailblazing virtual K-pop group that has shattered records across music charts worldwide — is back with their second single album, PLBBUU, in collaboration with Sanrio’s beloved characters, including My Melody and Cinnamoroll.
The group, which previously made waves on Billboard’s Global 200 and Global Excl. U.S. charts with their mini-album Caligo Pt. 1, once again showcases their self-producing artistry and emotional depth in this comeback.
“Thank you always for waiting for us. We worked hard to make this album the best it can be. Please enjoy PLBBUU and we hope it brings you happiness. Love you, BBUU!” – PLAVE
A Gift for Fans, Wrapped in Love and Music
PLBBUU captures PLAVE’s affectionate connection with their fans, affectionately called PLLI, through three heartfelt tracks: the title track “BBUU!”, “숨바꼭질 (Hide and Seek)”, and “봉숭아 (Bongsoong-a)”.
All five members of PLAVE participated in the writing and composition of every song, cementing their reputation as true self-producing idols.
“BBUU!” – Playful Charm Meets Addictive Rhythm
The title track, “BBUU!”, is a lighthearted R&B-inspired tune featuring playful lyrics and an irresistibly catchy hook. The repetitive counting in the chorus evokes a nostalgic, childlike energy reminiscent of their hit “Why?”.
The word “BBUU!” (뿌우) itself — mimicking the sound of a gentle kiss — becomes both a sonic motif and a visual cue, reflected in the choreography and concept visuals, creating an immersive experience for fans.
Revisiting “Hide and Seek” in Korean
The second track, “숨바꼭질 (Hide and Seek)”, serves as the Korean version of PLAVE’s Japanese debut single, originally released in September. Maintaining the emotional core of the original, this version infuses new Korean lyrics that express subtle nuances of longing and sincerity, while retaining the band-driven sound that defines PLAVE’s musical identity.
“Bongsoong-a” – A Nostalgic Winter Reverie
Closing the album, “봉숭아 (Bongsoong-a)”, which translates to balsam, is a delicate pop-R&B piece inspired by a traditional Korean custom — dyeing fingernails with balsam flowers during summer to ensure one’s love lasts until the first snowfall.
Through its poetic lyrics and warm vocals, PLAVE paints an image of fleeting seasons, blending childhood memories with mature reflection, offering a tender farewell to autumn.
A Record-Breaking Year for PLAVE
Beyond their musical releases, 2025 has marked a milestone year for PLAVE. Their Japanese debut single “Kakurenbo (Hide and Seek)” topped all four major Japanese charts — including Oricon Daily and Weekly rankingsas well as Billboard Japan’s Top Singles Sales — with over 388,000 copies sold in its first week, setting a new record for international artists.
Following their chart-topping success, PLAVE embarked on the 2025 Asia Tour [DASH: Quantum Leap], performing in Seoul, Taipei, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Bangkok, and Tokyo.
In August, they announced encore concerts at Seoul’s Gocheok Sky Dome — both nights selling out instantly. With this, PLAVE becomes the first virtual idol group to perform and sell out two of South Korea’s top five stadiums, including KSPO DOME and Gocheok Sky Dome.
Virtual, Yet Real — PLAVE’s Growing Legacy
With PLBBUU, PLAVE once again proves that music knows no boundaries — not even the digital kind. Their artistry continues to redefine what’s possible for virtual idols, blending technology, creativity, and genuine emotion into an experience that resonates deeply with fans across the globe.
