For DonorsFor Applicants

Ultimate K-Pop Stan Scholarship

Funded by
$500
1 winner$500
Awarded
Application Deadline
Aug 1, 2024
Winners Announced
Aug 15, 2024
Education Level
Any

"The K-Pop Stan Scholarship" celebrates the vibrant, global community of K-Pop enthusiasts—fans who are not just captivated by the music but are part of a worldwide movement. K-Pop, with its infectious tunes, groundbreaking performances, and dedicated fandoms, is much more than a genre—it's a cultural phenomenon that brings people together across continents.

Whether it’s the empowering anthems of BTS, the electric performances of BLACKPINK, the soulful melodies of EXO, or the innovative sound of TWICE (or any other group or artist), K-Pop has ignited a passion in millions of fans around the world. These artists and groups are not only redefining music; they are also shaping global culture, breaking down language barriers, and fostering a sense of unity and identity among fans.

Is there a particular K-Pop group or artist that makes your heart soar? One that you admire not just for their musical talent but for their ability to influence and inspire? We want to know who that is and how you think they are contributing to the global stage.

Students at any education level are eligible to apply for this scholarship as long as they have a genuine appreciation for K-Pop and its influence on the world.

This scholarship operates on a rolling deadline. However, the earlier you submit your application, the better your chances of being considered. Don't wait—apply now and take a step closer to securing this opportunity!

Note: This scholarship is not endorsed by or affiliated with any K-Pop artists, groups, entertainment companies, or any entities associated with the K-Pop industry. It is an independent scholarship created to celebrate and support the academic pursuits of dedicated K-Pop fans.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Impact
Published August 17, 2023
Essay Topic

Which K-Pop group/artist is your favorite and how have they made an impact on your life and global culture?

400–600 words

Winning Application

Kathleeya Taing
Dallas Baptist UniversityTomball, TX
I've always wanted to fit in. To belong, to feel valued, seen, heard, and a part of something bigger than myself. I know I'm not alone in this, as humans we all desire to be connected to someone somewhere or to something that makes us feel seen. From a young age I struggled to make friends and as I grew older my circle of friends decreased as the years passed by. Now that I'm in college I look back and I'm thankful for one thing that has stayed constant amidst all the change and chaos life can bring. That thing was BTS. From the age of 15 to now almost 20 years old I've been supported by a K-pop community of ARMYS around the world and a group that taught me how to love who I was, am, and will be and that I never walk alone. BTS consisting of 7 amazingly talented members from BigHit Entertainment (now HYBE) has brought me so much laughter and comfort over the years as I dealt with loneliness, depression, isolation, and anxiety. My biases Tae and Namjoon have taught me to be myself and not worry about what others think as well as to love the life I'm living and live intentionally. BTS has helped to shape who I am, from Eat Jin Vlives to new album releases their music has touched my soul like nothing before. I've felt comforted by words I couldn't understand and I could feel the emotion behind every single lyric written. I've been greatly influenced by their way of life and how every single member of BTS lives so authentically. They are unapologetically themselves and they've modeled for me what I wanted to live like and what kind of person I wanted to be as I got older. I found comfort in their words of encouragement and at times when I was alone they became my best friends. I know I'm not the only army that has experienced their positive influence and impact. I know that on a global scale, BTS has one of the largest if not the most global influence out of all the K-POP groups in the industry. I've seen the way they have shaped Korean culture and influenced many Asian Americans to grow curious about Korean Culture through their music and promotional events. In this same way as they're a globally renowned group they've shown many young men and women around the world the value of loving who you are and knowing you are valuable and that life itself is valuable. They've spread many positive messages and supported various global causes like UNICEF to show their support to end violence against children. They've also donated thousands of dollars to fund scholarships in support of everyone receiving equal education and the right to learn. Additionally, another huge donation that was matched by ARMYs globally was to support Black Lives Matter and end AAPI Hate. Overall they've been an amazing positive influence in my life and impacted me in ways I can't even explain. Without knowing them I don't think I'd be as confident or personable as I am today, I can say the same for the many ARMYs they've impacted around the world. BTS has been a friend to me, a mentor, a comforter, an encourager, and above all else leaders who have changed the global culture and world around us to make it a better place.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Aug 1, 2024. Winners will be announced on Aug 15, 2024.