K-Pop AI Idol ‘Eternity’ Bridges Virtuality and Reality at the Busan International Short Film Festival
In a groundbreaking fusion of technology and pop culture, the AI-generated K-pop idol group Eternity has taken center stage at the 42nd Busan International Short Film Festival (BISFF), earning widespread acclaim as the festival’s official ambassador and digital muse.
Created using PULSE9’s proprietary generative AI technology, Eternity is a virtual girl group consisting of 11 members who have captured the imagination of K-pop fans and tech enthusiasts alike. Joining the ranks of top-tier pop icons, the group heralds a new era of AI-powered entertainment.
At this year’s BISFF, Eternity led the pre-festival kickoff event with a dynamic dance challenge alongside a Colombian performer. The group also made a ceremonial appearance by declaring the opening of the festival and engaging in immersive fan events such as interactive photo booths and limited-edition snapshots.
One of the festival highlights was the screening of Eternity’s WEN MOON music video. Originally shot in 2D, the video was reborn using a 3D transformation technology developed in collaboration with the ETRI research lab in Busan and DM Studio. The 3D version was showcased both at Beyond 3D Cinema and through online platforms.
Audience responses ranged from amazement to delight, with many expressing fascination at seeing an entirely virtual idol act as a real-world ambassador. “It’s exhilarating to meet Eternity at a prestigious film festival like BISFF,” said one attendee. “The integration of cutting-edge technologies and performances adds fresh energy to cinema.”
This is not Eternity’s first brush with international recognition. They appeared alongside K-pop juggernauts in Hallyu! The K-wave, a traveling exhibition organized by the V&A Museum, currently spanning cities like London, San Francisco, Boston, Zurich, and Canberra. Germany’s Universum Science Center and the AI for Good Summit 2024 have also featured the group, amplifying their profile as digital performers.
Domestically, Eternity continues to break boundaries – from live broadcast appearances and drama roles to being the first AI idol to hold a solo concert. Their performance at the Jeju Halla Digital Art Museum’s “New Brave World” exhibition further cements their position at the intersection of culture and technology.
The Busan International Short Film Festival runs from April 24 to April 29 across two major venues: the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae and the BNK Busan Bank Art Cinema Corner Theater in Jung-gu. With its central theme “Cinema & Sound,” the festival celebrates its 42nd anniversary by showcasing bold, creative short films from around the world and presenting new sensory experiences for attendees.
