BIG FAN has partnered with the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono and CJ Cultural Foundation in South Korea to offer a rare international opportunity for one New Zealand-based band or artist (who performs with a band) to spend a week in Seoul, recording, performing, and building industry connections.

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The Seoul Residency will take place from 30 July to 10 August 2025 and includes studio time and a live performance at CJ Azit, a renowned venue and creative hub in Seoul. With support from CJ Cultural Foundation, they will also access tailored networking and local engagement opportunities designed to foster career development and cultural exchange.

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Applications are now open and close at 10am on Friday 16 May 2025. Applicants must be aged 18 or over, be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, and have original music released, recorded, or performed within the past year.

The successful applicant will receive:
• Return flights and accommodation in Seoul
• Studio access and a performance opportunity at CJ Azit
• Local support and connections to Seoul’s music community
• Travel insurance and visa costs, and a contribution toward transport, food and entertainment

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The residency is best suited to bands or artists working across indie-adjacent genres such as indie rock, dream pop, alt-pop, lo-fi, or folk. Applicants are encouraged to explore playlists like Indie Korea or The Black Skirts Radio for inspiration.

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BIG FAN General Manager, Savina Fountain, says:
“This is an incredible opportunity for a band from Aotearoa to expand their reach, grow their audience, and connect with one of the most exciting music scenes in the world. In today’s landscape, it’s vital that we create pathways for Aotearoa artists to reach global audiences. CJ Cultural Foundation’s philosophy strongly aligns with Big Fan’s kaupapa, and we’re excited to bring this partnership to life in Seoul.”

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Craig Cooper, Director Arts at the Asia New Zealand Foundation, adds:
“This residency is a great opportunity for an emerging artist to experience Asia’s dynamic cultural scenes. Seoul’s music landscape is globally influential, and this opportunity offers more than just performance— it’s about collaboration, cultural exchange and building long-term creative networks to develop their music and showcase their talent on an international stage.”

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For more information or to apply, visit www.bigfan.co.nz/community/seoulresidency or
www.asianz.org.nz/seoul-band-residency

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BIG FAN is a new not-for-profit, multi-purpose music space located in Morningside, Aotearoa New Zealand. Offering three world-class recording studios and a live music venue all under one roof, the team at BIG FAN are dedicated to helping people fulfil their ambitions through music. Their goal is to create a community that brings people together, supports the role of music in the betterment of people’s lives, and fosters the talents of musicians, songwriters and those who make it happen behind the scenes, regardless of their experience level.

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