SM Entertainment and LG Uplus Partner for the Future of K-pop with Virtual Idol Naevis

The world of K-pop is about to witness a groundbreaking collaboration between two industry giants, SM Entertainment and LG Uplus, who have joined forces to create a new wave of digital content powered by advanced AI technology. This partnership is set to pave the way for a new era in virtual entertainment, starting with SM Entertainment’s first virtual artist, Naevis.

A Leap into the Future of Content Creation

On August 29, 2024, at SM Entertainment’s headquarters in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, a business agreement was signed between SM Entertainment and LG Uplus. This partnership aims to leverage LG Uplus’s cutting-edge generative AI technology, known as ixi-GEN, to produce a wide array of digital content for Naevis. The collaboration marks a significant step forward in the fusion of AI and entertainment, with the two companies poised to revolutionize the way K-pop content is created and consumed.

The Birth of a Virtual Idol

Naevis, a character originally introduced in aespa’s digital universe Kwangya, is set to make her solo debut on September 10, 2024. Unlike traditional K-pop idols, Naevis is entirely AI-generated, featuring a voice and visuals created through LG Uplus’s ixi-GEN technology. This virtual artist will not only perform in music videos and short visual clips but will also extend her presence into concept photos, webtoons, games, and merchandise, offering a comprehensive digital experience to fans.

The Power of Generative AI

LG Uplus’s ixi-GEN, launched earlier this year, is at the heart of this collaboration. This generative AI technology is designed to produce hyper-realistic visual effects and adaptable content, ranging from 2D to 3D, tailored to different platforms. The AI will be instrumental in creating content that resonates with K-pop’s global fanbase, providing a new digital experience that transcends traditional entertainment boundaries.

A Strategic Synergy

Both companies see this collaboration as more than just a business partnership; it is a strategic move towards technological innovation and future-oriented content creation. SM Entertainment’s co-CEO, Tak Young-jun, highlighted that this partnership is a milestone in achieving creative synergy between the two companies. Meanwhile, LG Uplus’s Vice President, Jung Soo-heon, emphasized that this collaboration would provide new and enjoyable digital experiences not only to domestic customers but also to K-pop fans worldwide.

Looking Ahead

As Naevis prepares to debut, the anticipation among fans and industry insiders alike is palpable. This partnership between SM Entertainment and LG Uplus is expected to set new standards in the entertainment industry, showcasing the potential of AI in creating captivating digital experiences. With Naevis leading the charge, the future of K-pop looks brighter, more innovative, and undoubtedly more digital.

This collaboration is not just a leap for SM Entertainment and LG Uplus but a giant step forward for the entire K-pop industry, signaling a new era where technology and creativity intersect to create experiences that were once the realm of science fiction.