Organizer Information
MAD STARS is a globally recognized platform that connects young creatives in marketing, advertising, and digital content with international industry leaders. Known for its competitive and challenging competitions, MAD STARS aims to discover, nurture, and showcase promising future creatives worldwide through its events, exhibitions, and awards programs.
Title & Description
YOUNG STARS 2026 – Global Creative Competition for Students
YOUNG STARS 2026 is an intensive four-day competition held at SIGNIEL BUSAN, Republic of Korea. The program invites college and university students, including graduate students, military service personnel, and those on academic leave, to demonstrate their creative ideas and skills in marketing, advertising, and digital content. Participants work individually or in teams of two, responding to competition briefs over 30-hour challenges, guided and evaluated by a global creative jury. This high-profile event aims to inspire and identify the next generation of creative leaders, offering exposure, awards, and networking opportunities with international professionals.
Categories
- Marketing
- Advertising
- Graphic Design
- Digital Content
- Visual Communication
Eligibility
- Students from colleges or universities worldwide (undergraduate and graduate levels)
- Individuals on academic leave or military service
- Teams of up to two participants allowed
- Applicants must provide proof of enrollment
- Open to students of all majors
- Participants who have attended other advertising academy programs after graduation are not eligible
Program Benefits & Awards
- Free registration for finalists to access MAD STARS 2026
- Participation in Young Stars Networking Party
- Trophies awarded to Bronze winners and above
- Internship opportunities for Crystal Award winners
- Certificate of participation for all finalists
- Networking and exposure to global creative leaders
- Awards include Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Crystal
Note: Accommodation, airfare, meals, and transportation costs are not included. Internship schedules and capacities may vary depending on the agency.
Application Fee
KRW 300,000 (~USD 250) per person (for finalists only)
Application Requirements
- Completed Application Form on MAD STARS website
- Portfolio as a single PDF file (max 20MB)
- Optional: Scanned winning certificates combined in one PDF
- Submissions accepted in English or Korean
- No restrictions on the number of projects or pages
- Both individual and team projects are accepted
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 25 May 2026
- Finalist Announcement: 9 June 2026
- Competition & Event: 25–28 August 2026
Location
SIGNIEL BUSAN, Busan, Republic of Korea
Additional Details
- Preliminary Round: participants respond to briefs on-site within 30 hours
- Final Round: finalists attend MAD STARS 2026, receive awards, and access networking events
- Judging by global creative jury
- Emphasis on clear motivation, portfolio quality, and creative sincerity
- Only non-professional participants (students or individuals not currently working in advertising/marketing/digital content) are eligible
- Participants are responsible for all travel, accommodation, and associated costs
- MAD STARS reserves the right to adjust deadlines and conditions