PLAVE, a highly popular virtual K-pop group, recently had a comeback, triggering massive fan activity around album purchases and the collection of exclusive merchandise like photocards.
PLAVE, the groundbreaking virtual K-pop idol group, just dropped their latest album, "Caligo Pt.2," and the fan frenzy is real! This PLLI (PLAVE's official fandom name) went on an epic journey across Seoul to snag their bias members' albums and, most importantly, those coveted migongpo (unreleased photocards).
Our dedicated fan initially tried to hit up The Hyundai pop-up, but post-comeback, it was an absolute madhouse. The dream of a chill weekday visit to buy albums quickly evaporated after hearing about the insane waiting lines. So, a new strategy was formed: go offline to specific stores to guarantee getting their favorite members (Noah and Bamby) and the exclusive migongpo that online purchases couldn't promise. Even as a self-proclaimed "super light PLLI," the allure of collecting different versions and unique cards was too strong to resist!
First stop was Musinsa Store Seongsu, where they found a dedicated PLAVE corner. Here, only the ID PASS version albums were sold, and the migongpo featured a cool red background concept. What made this stop special was the staff's thoughtfulness: instead of random cards, they matched the migongpo to the chosen member's album! A true win for any collector.
Next, it was off to Ktown4u COEX. While a lucky draw for photocard albums was happening upstairs, our fan skipped it, having already secured those elsewhere. The mission here was the INVENTORY version album. Ktown4u had impressive PLAVE displays and even a name sticker machine. Although the INVENTORY version albums were displayed one by one, making selection tricky, our fan managed to grab their bias members' versions. A small downside: the albums were slightly pricier here than online, and a later realization revealed Olive Young Seongsu had them even cheaper – a missed opportunity in the heat of the album hunt!
Finally, a quick browse at Jamsil Animate rounded out the day, where a massive PLAVE standee greeted fans. This fan's strategic, albeit exhausting, album hunt perfectly encapsulates the dedication of K-pop fans, especially when it comes to collecting those precious migongpo for their beloved idols.
