Fullerton Students Showcase Talent, Culture at 2026 K-Pop Battle of the Bands

Fullerton School District crowned its top student performers at the 2025-26 K-Pop Battle of the Bands on April 8, where five junior high school teams showcased months of preparation in a high-energy competition celebrating music, culture and student talent.

The event marked the culmination of a nearly six-month program that began with more than 100 student auditions with participants advancing through multiple rounds, resulting in five-member K-pop bands representing Beechwood and Fisler Schools and Ladera Vista, Nicolas and Parks junior high schools.

During the finale, the Nicolas Junior High dance team took home the grand prize. Fisler School received best vocals and Parks Junior High School was recognized for best dance.

“I’m excited that we were able to make these memories together as a team,” said Alani, a seventh grader on the winning Nicolas Junior High team. “I’ve loved learning more about Korean culture, dance and singing, and I’ve grown so much by working with my teachers and coaches. It’s an amazing feeling to know our school is now part of K-Pop Battle of the Bands history.”

The event drew hundreds of families, staff and community members to The Source OC, a regional center for Korean culture, where students were evaluated by industry professionals on vocal and dance performance, stage presence, vocal and dance integration, performance aesthetics and choreography synchronization.

The finale also included a surprise performance by Fullerton School District principals, along with performances by fiveALIVE and Chodingz, adding to the event’s energy and community spirit.

“This program has empowered our students to engage with one of the world’s most influential music movements while building confidence and collaborating creatively,” said Phil Ling, Director of Educational Services, who oversees the District’s arts program. “K-pop gives our students the chance to connect with and celebrate the rich cultural traditions of our growing Korean community in Fullerton, and we’ve seen tremendous growth in them as both performers and learners.”

 

Since January, finalist teams have rehearsed weekly to prepare for the finale. Students also participated in K-pop vocal and dance master classes, along with immersive cultural enrichment experiences that included Korean dance, traditional instruments and a culinary learning session where students learned to make gimbap, a traditional Korean roll made up of vegetables and meats wrapped in seaweed and rice.

FSD’s K-pop program has attracted attention from major industry sponsors, including Source Music, home to the global girl group LE SSERAFIM and a subsidiary of HYBE, the company behind BTS. Additional sponsors include FNC Entertainment and BBcat Afterschool, which provided training, mentorship and materials for students.

“The K-Pop Battle of the Bands reflects the innovative, student-centered opportunities we strive to provide in the Fullerton School District,” said Interim Superintendent Chad Hammitt, Ed.D. “This program not only celebrates artistic talent but also fosters cultural experiences, teamwork, and perseverance – skills that extend far beyond the stage.”