Virtual K-pop group PLAVE has announced a cyber F1 racing-themed comeback for next month. The release will open a new chapter in the digital world of Asterum.
The group is closing its “Caligo Pt. 2” era after almost six months. Now, PLAVE is preparing to release its fifth extended play, “HYPERDRIVE.”
Agency Vlast confirmed that the new EP will arrive on October 12.
A countdown to ‘HYPERDRIVE’
PLAVE’s Weverse community shared the official promotion schedule on September 17. The announcement marked the start of the group’s teaser campaign.
A day earlier, PLAVE revealed the album title through a striking poster. The design featured skid marks across an asphalt road.
Fans can expect plenty of new content during the countdown. The schedule includes a concept film and two sets of concept photos.
The group will also release visual samplers and the track list. The track list will arrive on October 6.
Next, PLAVE will share a physical album preview on October 7. A highlight medley will follow on October 8. Finally, the group will release a music video teaser before the official comeback.
PLAVE often builds interconnected stories around its Asterum universe. This time, the members are taking the story in a new direction.
Yejun, Noah, Bamby, Eunho and Hamin appear as race car drivers in the new concept film. PLAVE released the video on September 18.
Their silhouettes stand beside futuristic race cars throughout the film. As a result, the visuals create a strong connection with the “HYPERDRIVE” concept.
Tour dates announced
PLAVE will release the digital album and title track music video on October 12 at 6 p.m. KST. The physical album will follow one day later on October 13.
The physical release will come in three versions. Fans can choose from “PLBBUU,” “Towel,” and “Racer.” Preorders are already underway.
Meanwhile, PLAVE has also launched its first world tour, “Keep It Manic.” The group opened the tour with back-to-back shows at Incheon Munhak Stadium this past weekend.
The tour will continue later this month. PLAVE will perform in Kanagawa, Japan, on September 26 and 27.
After Japan, the group will visit several other cities. The schedule includes Kaohsiung, Bangkok, Singapore, Taipei, Macau and Los Angeles.
Since its debut under Vlast in March 2023, PLAVE has continued to expand its presence in K-pop. The virtual group has also helped bring digital performers further into the mainstream music scene.
READ NEXT: Rosé partners with Apple for new single ‘New Trick’
