K-pop phenomenon, Blackpink, has finally infiltrated the realm of the largest online platform, Roblox, creating an immersive world for their die-hard fans, the Blinks. Collaborating with the metaverse studio Karta and their label’s subsidiary, YG PLUS, they have crafted ‘Blackpink: The Palace’, a new online event about to unfold.
This groundbreaking event, commencing on August 25, promises an infusion of new content throughout the subsequent year. Early birds, who join within the initial 24 hours, are lured with a special badge, showcasing their dedication on their Roblox profiles.
The Palace, portraying the potent capabilities of the metaverse realm, allows fans to mingle, relish in the band’s musical creations, and divulge into the world replicated from their favorite BLACKPINK music videos. Moreover, it enables fans to interact with digital avatars of the group’s populaces: Jennie, Lisa, Rosé, and Jisoo.
This digital experience extends to additional avenues of engagement. Fans are privy to mine crystals courtesy of their Lightstick-shaped hammers, a characteristic accessory in the K-pop universe. Mined crystals can then be utilized to host Blackpink-themed parties. Furthermore, fulfilling in-game challenges yields the in-game currency, Robux. Custom outfits and exclusive emotes attributed to band members can be purchased, and fans can practice the group’s celebrated choreography.
Interestingly, the liaison of K-pop and the metaverse is not a new venture. Blackpink, simultaneously making waves in the music and online worlds, bagged the first-ever ‘Best Metaverse Performance’ accolade at the MTV VMAs for their collaborative effort with PUBG Mobile. Other K-pop bands like NCT 127 and Twice have also made their foray into virtual universes.
Several conducive factors, such as the rise of K-pop bands like Blackpink and the surge of the COVID-19 pandemic, seem to have fast-tracked the expansion of the metaverse, forming a revitalized conduit between music and virtual worlds. While this innovative online platform augments the reach and influence of these music titans, the challenge lies in maintaining the genuine appeal and impact of traditional live performances amidst crystal mining and completion of virtual challenges. Nonetheless, the metaverse’s increasing clout among K-pop groups and the involvement of other platforms like Spotify suggest that these online, immersive experiences may just be the tip of the iceberg for the future music fan experience.
Source: Cryptonews
