Open Call: Creative Mission Seoul 2026

K-POP Creative Mission in Seoul | September 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed)

Dutch Music Export invites Dutch composers, producers, songwriters to apply for the second Creative Mission to Seoul, South Korea. About the Mission

Following the successful first Creative Mission to Seoul in 2025, Dutch Music Export returns to South Korea for a second edition focused on high-level international songwriting and production. The 2025 mission delivered outstanding results, including 4 official releases and options on additional tracks produced during the camp. These results were shared by Buma Stemra during the Connecting Sounds event in Amsterdam in September 2025.

For this second edition, DME is partnering with a Korean music industry partner (to be announced) to facilitate curated program of writing and production sessions. Over the course of five days, selected Dutch participants will collaborate with Korean songwriters, producers and artists in professional studio sessions, working towards new music for the K-POP market and related international pop markets.

Who Can Apply?

Songwriters, Producers & Topliners (8 spots) You are a Dutch composer, producer, songwriter or topliner with a professional international track record. You have experience in co-writing or production sessions and are eager to create music for the Korean and international market.

Applicants should meet most or all of the following criteria:

• You are a Dutch songwriter, composer, producer or topliner with a demonstrable professional track record

• You have released works and commercially exploited cuts

• You have prior experience in international co-writing sessions, camps or label/publisher-led writing environments. 

• You have proven experience writing or producing for pop, K-pop or topline driven artist focused repertoire

• You already have K-Pop cuts, K-pop label sessions, or other clearly relevant credits in the international pop market

• You are comfortable working in fast-paced collaborative sessions

• You are used to preparing for writing camps at a professional level and are able to arrive with a strong folder of session-ready ideas.

• You are available for the full program and participate for the full program. 

Please note that this mission is not intended for entry level writers or producers. The selection will focus on quality, international readiness, relevance to the market, and the ability to enter the camp well prepared. 

What Does the Mission Include?

• Professional songwriting and production sessions in Seoul studios

• Introductions to Korean music industry professionals

• Networking events and industry meetings

• Programme coordination and on-the-ground support by DME and local partners

  
  

What Is Expected From Participants?

• Be fully available for the mission dates in September 2026

• Actively participate in all scheduled sessions, meetings and networking moments

• Arrive fully prepared with a folder of session-ready ideas.

• Be able to respond quickly to briefs and adapt creatively within different collaborative settings. 

• Active participation in all scheduled sessions and events

• Willingness to collaborate across cultures and genres

• Sharing of results and learnings with the wider Dutch music community after the mission

Financial Contribution

Participants are expected to cover their own travel and accommodation costs. DME will provide a financial contribution to help offset part of these expenses.

Please note:

• The financial contribution is intended as a partial contribution towards travel and accommodation costs

• The contribution will not cover all costs in full

• Participants are responsible for arranging for their own:

  • international flights

  • accommodation

  • travel insurance

  • any visa-related or personal costs, where applicable

• Further details regarding the amount and conditions of the contribution will be shared with the selected participants

Applicants should only apply if they are able to co-invest in their participation and cover costs beyond the financial contribution.

How to Apply

Submit your application via the form below. Include:

• Your biography and relevant experience

• Links to recent work (releases, credits, portfolio)

• A short motivation explaining;

  • why do you want to join this mission

  • what makes you a strong fit for the K-Pop market

  • and what do you aim to achieve?

Applications open: March 20, 2026 Deadline: May 30th, 2026 Selection notification: July 2026

About Dutch Music Export

Dutch Music Export strengthens the international position of Dutch pop music. DME is an initiative of Fonds Podiumkunsten and Buma Cultuur. Through funding, trade missions, and knowledge exchange, DME supports Dutch artists and music professionals in building sustainable international careers.

For questions about this open call, contact Dutch Music Export at info@dutchmusicexport.nl

Apply here

BEST REGARDS,