‘Our K-pop dance competition creates a space where young people can develop their talents, strengthen their social skills and experience cultural diversity. In doing so, we promote both individual development and community spirit. This project aims to help us build a stable team within the organisation and also contribute to the visibility of youth cultural expressions in North Rhine-Westphalia.’

The K-Pop project is aimed at teenagers and young adults aged 12 to 26 and offers an open space to experience music, dance and Korean culture together. Participants come from all over North Rhine-Westphalia and meet, regardless of their previous experience, to share ideas, be creative and make new friends. In addition to dancing, the focus is above all on fostering a sense of community and strengthening the K-pop community.

Alongside dance competitions and creative workshops, topics such as inclusion are specifically addressed. Another focus is on critically examining idol culture to promote a more conscious approach to beauty ideals and pressure to perform.

In the long term, the plan is to hold monthly K-pop events in Witten, Essen or the surrounding area. These will be complemented by a variety of workshops, including dance, the Korean language, calligraphy, traditional culture, hanbok and noraebang (karaoke).

  • A young woman dances on a stage.
    © Nathan Dreessen
  • Stand mit koreanischem Spielzeug.
    © Nathan Dreessen
  • Zwei Tänzer auf einer Bühne während einer Performance.
    © Nathan Dreessen
  • Eine Person im Publikum filmt die Tanzgruppe auf der Bühne.
    © Nathan Dreessen
  • Viele Jugendliche tanzen auf einer Tanzfläche.
    © Nathan Dreessen
  • Eine Tanzgruppe performt auf der Bühne.
    © Nathan Dreessen
  • Jugendliche im Publikum filmen und betrachten Tänzerinnen auf der Bühne.
    © Nathan Dreessen

Funding programme
U25 – Young Culture Initiatives

Applicant
Alison Mboyo / WERK°STADT

Location
North Rhine-Westphalia

Project Period
2025 - 2026

Topics / Formats
Workshops, Dance, Cultural exchange

Websites
werk-stadt.com

Instagram

Tanzgruppe verneigt sich zusammen auf der Bühne.
© Nathan Dreessen