K-pop+ Rules

Get ready to dance, shine, and own the UniCon stage!

Apply to contest

Good to Know

Hi there, dancers! Before you dive into the details, here’s a quick look at the essentials to get you started.

Applications will close on July 27, 2025 at 23:59.

K-pop+ participants get a €15 discounted ticket, available only at the entrance.

No need to buy online - this ticket is required for stage performance and not replaceable with a regular one.

The stage size is 14 × 6 meters.

You can perform K-pop, C-pop, J-pop, or any other Asia-based dance style.

Western music is allowed too - as long as the choreography is either original or created by an Asian choreographer or studio.
Example: “The Boy Is Mine” by Ariana Grande, choreographed by Jonggyu Lee at 1MILLION Dance Studio.

There are no age limits - everyone’s welcome to perform!

You can’t use the same performance for both the Cosplay and K-pop+ contests.

The number of accepted performances may vary from event to event and is not fixed in advance.

Categories

k-pop+ performance

Step up solo or with your crew - the K-pop+ Dance Contest is open to everyone!

Just pick the format that suits you best and stay within the time limits.

Solo (1 dancer)

Max performance length: 1 minute(1:00)

Duo / Trio (2-3 dancers)

Max performance length: 2 minutes(2:00)

Group (4-18 dancers)

Max performance length: 3 minutes(3:00)

Make sure your track fits the limit

If your audio is even a few seconds over, we’ll ask you to shorten it - no exceptions, sorry! Double-check before you send it in.

Up to 18 performers max

That’s the maximum number of people allowed on stage at once - keep it in mind when planning your group!

Non-contest Entry

Got a non-contest idea? We’re open to unique performances.
Just email us at kpop@unicon.lv and let’s talk!

Props, Helpers & Backdancers

What is Allowed

Creative props inspired by Asian music videos are welcome. Just let the K-pop Coordinator know in advance.

Need help with props? Our K-pop Staff Team can assist with setting things up before your performance - just coordinate it ahead of time.

One backstage helper is allowed per dance group (4+ performers). After you receive a confirmation letter of your participation, find the Google Form for helpers and fill out the helper’s name, surname, and date of birth. Please note: helpers have to purchase full price event tickets.

Backdancers and helpers must be listed in your application (e.g. Backdancer - Name, Helper - Name). Their names won’t count toward the performance limit, but use this option sparingly.

Backdancers can appear on stage for up to 15 seconds. If it’s longer, you may be asked to cut or adjust the timing.

What is not Allowed

Сonfetti, party poppers and glitter cannons are not allowed unless approved in advance. Using them without permission may lead to disqualification.

Microphones will not be available for use during your performance.

Helpers are not allowed for solo or duo/trio performances.

Unauthorized people are not allowed backstage or in changing rooms.

Helpers who cause disruption during rehearsals or in the dressing rooms will be asked to leave.

How judging works

Performances will be scored by a jury across 5 key criteria. Every detail counts - from your technique and energy to how you bring the story to life.

Showmanship – how well you match the music, your clarity, stage presence, and overall confidence. Judges will notice how you carry yourself and engage the audience.

Technique – precision, synchronization with the team, clean execution, and how well you project your movements.

Choreography – your use of formations, transitions, movement variety, and whether the choreography fits the style and structure of the song.

Emotion – your facial expressions, the feeling behind your moves, and how effectively you tell the story of your performance.

Presentation – your outfit, how props are used, the overall concept, and how well everything ties together thematically.

Awards

Best performances will be celebrated on the K-pop Stage during the Awards Ceremony! Each performance can only receive one award.

Best Solo

1st, 2nd, and 3rd place

Best Duo

1st, 2nd, and 3rd place

Best Group

1st, 2nd, and 3rd place

Best Stage Show

1 place

Best Original Choreography

1 place

Judges’ Favourites

3 special picks

How to Apply

Each participant can perform up to 2 times total
(Example: 1 solo + 1 group performance). Please do not apply under different stage names to bypass this rule.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Prepare your Google Drive folder

Create one folder and place all required files inside. We only accept applications via Google Drive. Other platforms will not be accepted.

Step 2: Upload your music file (.mp3 only)

Only .mp3 format is accepted.
(No .wav, .m4a, .wma, .ogg, or other formats.)

If your file has a different format, please convert it before submitting. You can use this free tool or any converter you prefer.

Step 3: Add your reference image

Image requirements:

High quality (minimum resolution: 1920x1080 Full HD)

If the image doesn’t meet the standards, we’ll ask you to upload a new one.

If no replacement is provided in time, we reserve the right to replace it ourselves.

This should be a photo of the artist you are covering - not a photo of yourself. It will be displayed on screen during your performance.

Step 4: Include a video of your performance

This is a crucial part of your application - the video plays a key role in helping us decide who gets selected for the stage.

Show us your energy, your expression, and how you connect with the music. Even if it’s just a rehearsal, give it your best!

Please keep in mind:

Costumes are not required in the video.

If you plan to use props (e.g. flags, hand fans), include them in the video.

You can film with your phone - video quality is not important, but the performance itself is.

The video must show the full performance. Incomplete dances will not be considered.

Step 5: Adjust your sharing settings

Make sure the folder and all files are set to “Anyone with the link can view”, so we can access your application.

Submit your application

To apply, fill out the online form here.

Make sure to:

Provide a correct and active email address in your application.

Check your inbox regularly - we might need to ask you questions or request file updates.

Stay in touch - it helps us process your application smoothly.

Don’t Miss the Deadline!

Please submit all your files by Sunday, 27 July 2025, 23:59. Incomplete applications won’t be accepted.

Got questions or updates? Reach out to us at kpop@unicon.lv before the deadline to keep your entry on track.

Time Slot Allocation & Rehearsals

Due to the high number of applicants, performance and rehearsal slots are given on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you require a specific time because of costume changes, health, special effects, or travel plans, let us know as early as possible - we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

To ensure everyone gets rehearsal time, each participant is allowed only one rehearsal, unless the Coordinator decides otherwise on-site.

Terms & Conditions

The UniCon team reserves the right to reject or remove any participant without prior notice if they:

Break the event rules.

Break the laws of The Republic of Latvia.

Are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or carry such substances.

Show disrespectful or harmful behavior towards others.

Damage costumes, props, equipment, or venue property.

Their performance is unfinished.

Their performance contains excessive aggression, calls to violence, pornography or profanity.

Participants may be banned from further cosplay and K-pop+ competitions at UniCon and WinterCon events for a duration, at the administration’s discretion.

The administration reserves the right to remove any participant at any time, without prior notice or explanation.

FAQ

Timing & Lists
When will the lists be available?

We usually send the draft list of accepted performances within a week after the application deadline. However, the timing may vary depending on the number of applications.

The lists sent directly to participants are considered drafts, as performers may request changes to their time slots for various reasons such as travel, health, or costume logistics.

The final list is published a few days before the event on our Instagram page - make sure to check both the draft and final versions.

Why is my performance not in the block I picked?

Due to a 1-hour time limit per block, it’s not possible to accommodate everyone’s preferences. If you need a specific block due to travel or other obligations, please note this in any free-form field on the form (e.g. Lights, Performed Song).

There’s a mistake in the list / I got the wrong email / I didn’t get any email!

Please email us as soon as possible, clearly explain the situation, and we’ll do our best to help.

Application & File Changes
Can I get an extension of the deadline?

Unfortunately, no late applications are accepted under any circumstances. Please have everything ready before the deadline closes.

I received an email about my files - does this mean I was accepted?

We send two emails to each participant:

- The first email confirms whether your files are in order or need changes.
- The second email contains the final result of your application.

We review applications only after making sure that all submitted files are correct and working. Receiving an email about your files does not mean your application has been accepted into the contest.

Why was my performance not accepted?

Due to the large number of applications, we can’t provide individual feedback or explain the selection process. We also do not keep notes on any submissions.

The number of accepted performances and participants varies from event to event, and we are only able to include a limited amount of entries in the final program.

How can I change my files?

If you need to replace your music file (due to low quality after rehearsals), you can email us with:

- Your Block & Number
- Stage Name
- Song title

Please note: you cannot change your performed song or reference image.

Performance Details & Tech
What should I write in the Lights section?

Light technicians don’t use timestamps - please don’t include seconds.
Instead, describe the mood and color of your performance, such as:

- Cheery (lively, flashy, energetic)
- Serene (flowing, emotional, calm)
- Fierce (rock-style, intense)

All Set?

Still Have Questions?

If you're a new dancer or unsure about anything in the application process - don’t hesitate to reach out! Our coordinator will be happy to assist you at: kpop@unicon.lv

Please use this email for all K-pop+ related questions - not Instagram DMs!

Ready to Apply?

You’ve got everything you need - now it’s your time to shine! Show us your energy, your talent, your passion - we can’t wait to see what you bring to the stage.

Apply now