Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Co-Creating Authenticity: Theoretical Analysis of How the Operations of Virtual Idols Culture Work: Using PLAVE and Its Fan Community as an Example

Yifei WangCommunication University of Zhejiang*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

Virtual idols are one of the characteristic cultural trends of the times of digital age. They have succeeded because of the carefully designed working plans that create an effect of reality and attachment under their virtual disguise and identity, resulting in a strong attachment of the fans. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a systematical review and examination of a theoretical framework on which this phenomenon is based. With PLAVE, the newest phenomenon-level virtual idol group, and its fan community PLAVER as the main case studies and storylines, this paper revisits and combines the above categories of theoretical approaches. This indicates that the concept of cultural authenticity of virtual idols is manifested as a dynamic process, which is the synergistic effect of three factors: content narrative, interactive rituals, and community co-creation. The complex interdependence between virtual and reality, labor and emotion, and business and culture will also be demonstrated in the PLAVE case. Lastly, this paper will be a critical reflection of this operational model that will help to offer a more comprehensive and critical theoretical lens to the structure of digital cultural production and identity construction.

Keywords: Virtual Idol; Authenticity; Interactive Ritual; Backstage Content Foregrounding; Participatory Culture
Published: March 24, 2026
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2026.HT32294
Volume: CHR Vol.104
pp. 177-183
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