From BTS to BLACKPINK, how K-pop idols are taking over games like Fortnite, PUBG and League of Legends

K-pop's global reach no longer stops at albums, tours, or brand deals. In recent years, some of the industry's biggest names have crossed into the gaming world, turning chart-topping idols into playable characters, virtual performers, and in-game icons. From blockbuster RPGs to competitive online games, these collaborations blur the line between music, fandom, and digital worlds - and fans can't get enough.




BTS have consistently pushed the boundaries of idol-led projects, and gaming is no exception. The group fronted BTS World, an interactive mobile game that placed fans directly into their journey. They later teamed up with Fortnite, introducing exclusive emotes and premiering a music video inside the game itself. Beyond that, BTS' beloved BT21 characters found new life across titles like Cookie Run: Kingdom and Among Us. Adding to the group's gaming footprint, SUGA collaborated with Halsey on Lilith, the dark, cinematic anthem for Diablo IV.






LE SSERAFIM made waves in the gaming space with their high-profile collaboration with Overwatch 2. The partnership introduced themed character skins for heroes like D.Va and Kiriko, a custom game mode, and the release of the group's hit track Perfect Night, seamlessly merging K-pop energy with competitive gameplay.





Long before K-pop gaming crossovers became common, (G)I-DLE helped set the standard. Members Miyeon and Soyeon lent their voices to Ahri and Akali in K/DA, the virtual K-pop group born within League of Legends. The project became a global phenomenon, proving that virtual idols backed by real artists could dominate charts and gaming culture alike.





Their collaboration with PUBG: Battlegrounds introduced exclusive character skins, cosmetics, and themed in-game events that expanded the group's virtual lore. They later extended their gaming presence through a partnership with Epic Seven, further cementing their position at the intersection of K-pop and digital storytelling.





BLACKPINK took gaming collaborations to another level through their partnership with PUBG Mobile. The collaboration featured in-game character skins, special items, and even a virtual concert experience tied to their track Ready for Love. Their presence also extended into MapleStory, giving fans multiple digital spaces to engage with the group.





NewJeans added their signature aesthetic to PUBG: Battlegrounds with a collaboration that went beyond visuals. Their music became part of the game's soundtrack, while themed costume sets, weapon skins, and sprays allowed players to fully immerse themselves in the group's world.





EXO's Baekhyun entered the gaming universe as the voice behind Ezreal in HEARTSTEEL, a virtual boy band introduced through League of Legends. The project blended music, lore, and gameplay, showcasing how individual idols are also carving out space in gaming culture.





ITZY brought their high-energy image into games like Mobile Legends and Pokémon Unite.





The boy group teamed up with the Pokémon franchise for the release of One and Only, alongside a global dance challenge.



All these collaborations highlight how K-pop groups are reaching fans through interactive and playful digital experiences.