2026 Seoul International Music Competition for Visually Impaired Artists
www.simbkorea.com

The 2026 Seoul International Music Festival for Visually Impaired Artists (SIMB) is dedicated to fostering artistic excellence among visually impaired musicians.It provides opportunities for talented artists to develop their professional skills, expand their artistic reach, and engage in auditory-centered creative expression and cultural exchange.
As part of the SIMB Festival, the 2026 Seoul International Music Competition for Visually Impaired Artists aims to discover outstanding musicians from around the world.The competition offers a platform for global networking, international exchange, and performance opportunities, enabling artists to connect with wider audiences and advance onto larger stages.
We believe that in the arts, disability is not a limitation but a unique characteristic that shines.This competition aspires to become a platform of connection and growth where visually impaired artists unite through their exceptional auditory abilities and passion for music to move toward a broader world.

Korea Association for Disabled Performing Arts

www.saltandlight.co.kr
Established in January 2010, the Korea Association for Disabled Performing Arts is committed to helping visually impaired artists deliver messages of hope through music and lead fulfilling lives.
The organization promotes diverse cultural and artistic initiatives to ensure equal opportunities for all, regardless of disability.Through nationwide concerts, international invitations, and various outreach programs, it strives to enhance awareness and elevate the status of disabled artists in the cultural and arts sector.

Application Guidelines for Preliminary Round

The 2026 competition supports visually impaired musicians in gaining performance opportunities and advancing onto the global stage.
Finalists will receive a total of KRW 10,000,000 in performance fees, concert opportunities, and access to masterclasses with distinguished faculty members from Korea and abroad.
The preliminary round will be conducted online for all categories.

Eligibility
• Open to visually impaired musicians only
• Age limit: under 50
• No restriction on nationality
• Individual applicants only (no ensembles)

Categories
• Piano
• Strings
• Woodwinds
• Brass
• Voice

Jury
Composed of distinguished professors and musicians from Korea and abroad

Awards & Benefits
• Total of KRW 10,000,000 in performance fees
• Performance opportunities
• Festival participation tickets

1. Preliminary Application Process
1. Select a free repertoire and record a performance of at least 3 minutes
2. Upload the video to YouTube (unlisted) or Google Drive
3. Submit the link via the application form

2. Application Submission
Email: simbkorea@gmail.com

3. Schedule
• Application Deadline: June 6, 2026 (Sat) 18:00 (KST)
• Announcement of Finalists: June 10, 2026 (Wed) 14:00 (KST)
• Final Round & Award Ceremony: August 25, 2026 (Tue) 09:00, Seoul National University Concert Hall
• Winners’ Concert: August 27, 2026 (Thu) 14:00, Seoul National University Concert Hall

4. Application Fee
Free of charge

5. Competition Process
Preliminary Round
• Selection based on submitted video recordings
• Results announced via website and individual email notification
Final Round
• Date: August 25, 2026
• Venue: Seoul National University Concert Hall
• Awards ceremony immediately after the competition
Concert
• Winners’ Concert: August 27, 2026
• Additional domestic and international performance opportunities provided

6. Prize Details
• 1st Prize: KRW 3,000,000
• 2nd Prize: KRW 2,300,000
• 3rd Prize: KRW 1,800,000
• 4th Prize: KRW 1,300,000
• 5th Prize: KRW 900,000
• 6th Prize: KRW 700,000
※ Prize money will only be awarded upon performance※ Taxes will be deducted according to Korean law
Travel and accommodation expenses are the responsibility of participants.However, finalists visiting Seoul will receive:
• Access to the SIMB Festival
• Transportation voucher
• Meals provided by the organizer

7. Video Submission Guidelines
• Submit video file and application form via simbkorea@gmail.com
• YouTube links must be accessible (not private)
• No audio or video editing allowed
• Fixed camera angle showing the performer’s face and upper body
• Proper audio recording required
• Minimum performance length: 3 minutes
• Do not display your name in the video
• Repertoire for finals may differ from preliminary round
• Da Capo and repeats may be omitted
• Videos must be recorded within one year from the announcement date

8. Additional Information
• Official proof of visual impairment required
• Guardian contact information must be provided
• Participants (except piano and voice) must bring their own instruments
• Official published scores must be used
• The organizer is not responsible for copyright issues
• International participants may require a visa (fees borne by participants)
• Finalists must arrange their own accompanist (exceptions may apply for international participants)

9. Contact & Inquiries
For detailed guidelines and application procedures, please visit our website or contact us via email.
Website: www.simbkorea.comEmail: simbkorea@gmail.com

Organization
Hosted by: Seoul International Music Festival for Visually Impaired Artists Committee / Korea Association for Disabled Performing Arts

Organized by: Korea Association for Disabled Performing Arts

Supported by: Seoul Metropolitan Government