#afun_interactivecom
**South Korean Startup’s Virtual Character Apoki Takes Global Stage with 10 Million Fans **
A startup has garnered a following of 10 million fans for its virtual character, supported by real-time 3D graphic technology and continuous efforts to maintain fan engagement.
Kwon Do-kyun, CEO of Afun Interactive, in a recent interview in Seoul, mentioned that they’re building an intellectual property (IP) similar to the longevity of Mickey Mouse and Hello Kitty. He emphasized the company’s goal to establish a Korean IP kingdom akin to Disney and Marvel by continuously developing new IPs.
Afun Interactive is a tech-based content startup that creates virtual character and entertainment IPs using real-time 3D graphics. Kwon highlighted that they are pioneering the relatively unfamiliar virtual entertainment market, and they’ve developed their own virtual IP that has almost 10 million global fans.
Afun Interactive’s main character, Apoki, has been active for 5 years and has grown as a virtual human with more than 5 million global followers across platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Apoki’s recent music videos and TikTok clips have garnered over 10 million views, and their overall video count has surpassed a billion. In 2021, digital goods worth 500 million won sold out in just 2 seconds, and Apoki is actively involved in advertisements for global companies, appearing on Korean music broadcasts, and conducting concerts in Japan and the USA.
Kwon stated that while many in Korea might still be unfamiliar with the virtual character, it has gained recognition overseas due to the global success of K-pop. Although initially not focused on the digital character business, Afun Interactive switched its business direction towards tech-based IP and digital entertainment, envisioning digital human technology as a crucial element in the upcoming metaverse and AI markets.
Afun Interactive has ambitious plans to release new virtual IPs, production solutions, and integrate its own universe. Kwon emphasized his commitment to ensuring South Korea leads in the new field of virtual entertainment, capitalizing on the global wave of Korean culture.
https://www.etoday.co.kr/news/view/2290453