Korean Air has unveiled a cutting-edge inflight safety video featuring virtual humans in an unprecedented move that marries aviation and digital technology. This groundbreaking initiative marks the first of its kind in the airline industry, showcasing a virtual flight attendant and passengers in a meticulously crafted digital environment.
The video introduces Rina, a virtual human in a Korean Air flight attendant uniform, who leads the safety instructions. Accompanying her is the virtual girl group MAVE, comprising four members who act as passengers adhering to the guidelines. Rina and MAVE are creations of Metaverse Entertainment of Netmarble F&C, a testament to the evolving synergy between technology and entertainment.
Set in the “Korean Air Safety Lounge,” a space imbued with aeroplane motifs, the video offers an intuitive and engaging method for understanding inflight safety rules. Rina, who has undergone safety training at Korean Air’s Cabin Crew Training Center and is an honorary flight attendant, imparts safety instructions precisely and clearly. MAVE members, each with their distinct persona, further underscore the relevance of the safety guidelines through their interactions.
The safety video, which premiered on all Korean Air flights starting January 4, is also available on the airline’s official YouTube channel. It addresses essential safety topics like carry-on luggage storage, seatbelt usage, prohibited items, cabin smoking regulations, emergency procedures, and life jacket usage. The use of virtual humans makes these instructions more relatable and engaging, particularly for the digitally savvy generation.
A Korean Air representative highlighted the initiative’s significance: “This will become a great example of the synergy created between the aviation industry and digital technology. We intend to change perceptions of inflight safety videos with these new ideas, making them more relatable and engaging for passengers.”
Rina embodies realistic facial expressions and movements and is a virtual human brought to life by Netmarble FNC’s Metaverse Entertainment using state-of-the-art 4D technology. Since her debut in January 2022, she has gained popularity as a virtual influencer and Gen Z digital creator, featuring in advertisements for renowned brands.
KE New Safety Video
MAVE, a four-member virtual girl group, debuted in January 2023 with their single album, “PANDORA’s BOX.” Their debut song, “PANDORA”, has garnered 45 million streams on Spotify and 30 million music video views, establishing them as prominent figures in the digital entertainment sphere.
Korean Air’s innovative approach to integrating virtual humans into its safety video is a creative endeavour and a strategic move to enhance passenger engagement and safety awareness. By leveraging the appeal of digital characters and immersive storytelling, the airline has set a new standard in passenger experience, making safety instructions more captivating and memorable.
This initiative reflects Korean Air’s commitment to leveraging digital technology to enrich customer experience and ensure safety. It symbolizes a progressive step in the aviation industry, where technological innovation is increasingly integral to enhancing passenger engagement and safety awareness.
With this bold stride, Korean Air is reinforcing the crucial message of inflight safety and positioning itself at the forefront of digital innovation in the aviation sector. The airline’s fusion of technology and creativity in its safety video is a beacon for others in the industry, demonstrating how digital advancements can transform traditional practices into captivating, informative experiences.
Written by: Michelle Warner
