Summer is here, and PLAVE is ready to put a sun-soaked spin on our playlists for the season with their latest release!
After making history earlier this year as the first virtual idol group to enter both Billboard’s Global 200 and Global Excl. US charts, PLAVE are continuing to redefine what’s possible, this time, with their official Japanese debut. On June 16, 2025, the group released their first Japanese single album, ‘かくれんぼ’ (pronounced ‘Kakurenbo’, or ‘Hide and Seek’), and we have had it on heavy rotation ever since!
‘Hide and Seek’ totally fits the summer vibe with its sharp guitars, chill beat, and lively energy. But if you dig a bit deeper, you’ll find some serious emotional layers. The song employs the metaphor of hide-and-seek to represent the emotional distance between the past and the present. Even though the tune is bright and uplifting, it sneaks in a bit of a nostalgic feel, especially when you compare it to the MV’s slightly chilling vibes.
PLAVE’s vocals are a true highlight for this song, with those high, echoing notes and smooth harmonies that make the chorus feel like it’s reaching for something. You can really hear the J-pop vibe mixed into their unique virtual band style, showing off their creativity and attention to detail. This is another incredible piece by PLAVE’s producer line: Yejun, Noah, and Eunho, with the choreography line, Bamby and Hamin’s work truly bringing the music video together. ‘Hide And Seek’ also sees collaboration with famous Japanese producer UTA (BTS, ARASHI) and lyricist JUN (BTS, Snow Man) to make sure the track’s emotional message resonates with Japanese PLLI.
The single album has two extra tracks, Japanese versions of ‘RIZZ’ and ‘Chroma Drift,’ which were initially on their Caligo Pt. 1 mini album. ‘RIZZ – Japanese Ver.’ has a fun, flirty hip-hop vibe with sweet metaphors and auto-tune. ‘Chroma Drift – Japanese Ver.’ ends the album with a smooth, retro-inspired city pop sound, with saxophone and synths that make you feel both nostalgic and deep. These adaptations show that PLAVE can flawlessly switch between genres and languages, and are truly committed to connecting with fans, transcending language with their music.
Speaking in a press release about their Japanese debut, PLAVE shares: “We’re excited to build great memories with Japanese PLLIs through our debut in Japan. We’re feeling a bit nervous, but we’re really looking forward to meeting you all. Please look forward to PLAVE’s growth in the future, and we hope you enjoy our new single.” We’re so proud of you, boys! You’re truly making memories and history, and we’re incredibly proud.
The Japanese debut follows after a massive year for our Asterum Idols. They’ve racked up over a billion streams on Melon and even got nominated for Best Song Asia at the Music Awards Japan. Now they’re about to embark on a sold-out Asia tour! Their 2025 PLAVE Asia Tour [DASH: Quantum Leap] is going to take them to six major cities, including Tokyo, Bangkok, and Seoul, with all three Seoul dates at the 15,000-capacity KSPO Dome selling out instantly. Icon behaviour!
‘Hide and Seek’ isn’t just a cute summer bop; it’s a beautifully layered track that shows how far PLAVE has come, not only as virtual idols but as artists, storytellers, and total heartbreakers (in the best way). With its nostalgic edge, impressive production, and emotional depth, this debut is more than just a release; it’s a connection. Whether you’ve been with PLAVE since the beginning or you’re just discovering their magic now, this is the perfect song to dive into their world.
As they step into Japan with open hearts and major milestones already under their belt, PLAVE proves once again that their journey is only just beginning, and honestly, we can’t wait to keep chasing after them.
Are you loving ‘Hide and Seek?’ Will you be seeing PLAVE on tour? Let us know by tweeting us at @TheHoneyPOP or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.
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