KIRSTIN BERNABE (ABU DHABI)

Calling all K-Pop stans in the UAE: Want to train like your BTS bias or perform like a member of Blackpink? This could be your chance. 

The Korean Cultural Centre (KCC) in the UAE is bringing a K-Pop professional workshop to Abu Dhabi – the first in the region. 

KCC has teamed up with Dong-Ah Institute of Media and Arts (DIMA) – a top-tier institution known for producing world-class K-Pop talent – so you can be sure this “training” is the real deal.

Running from August 20 to 22, the “Kpop Academy X DIMA Dream School” promises a unique opportunity that will immerse participants in Korea’s dynamic music culture.

The workshop will be conducted in mixed-gender classes with age-specific sessions for youth, adults, and children. It will be held at Dee Studio, Abu Dhabi. 

The programme includes K-Pop Dance, Vocal, and Video Production Classes. And the best part? It is free of charge. 

Take note, however, that this is open only to non-Korean participants. Those interested can sign up through

https://forms.gle/1vgApr5DWoe9URQ78   

Here’s the class schedule and a glimpse of what to expect from “Kpop Academy X DIMA Dream School”: 

August 20

Group: Youth

1pm-3pm: Dance class  (HUNTR/X – “GOLDEN” and BTS – “I NEED YOU”)

3pm to 4:30pm: Vocal class (HUNTR/X – “TAKE DOWN” and BTS – “I NEED YOU”)

August 21

Group: Adults

1pm-3pm: Dance class (BLACKPINK – “JUMP”)

3pm to 4:30pm: Vocal class (BTS – “Life Goes On”)

August 22

Group: Children

1pm-3pm: Dance class (SAJA Boys – “SODAPOP” and NewJeans – “Super Shy”)

3pm to 4:30pm: Video Production

K-Pop Academy 2025

Besides the “Dream School” sessions, KCC is also hosting a regular course under its  K-Pop Academy 2025 initiative, which started on July 27 and runs until August 22. 

Here, participants get to learn the choreography for two full K-Pop songs, guided by professional instructors from Korea. KCC recently opened additional slots only for females aged 14 and above. 

Here’s a reminder from the centre, though: “This is an official KCC course. No-shows may affect your eligibility for future KCC events and programmes. Only register if you can attend all sessions.”

Classes are on Monday and Wednesday (6pm-8pm); Tuesday and Thursday (6pm-8pm); and Sunday (2pm-4pm).

Those who wish to sign up for the regular course under K-Pop Academy can go to this link: https://forms.gle/hcGN13tdzSVvz5iQA