Meet the judges
Solo, Small Group, & Large Group Dance Judge
Aaliyah Flournoy
Aaliyah Flournoy is the founder and director of both Hush Crew Boston and LA, is a dancer, performer and instructor at studios around the LA and OC areas. Aaliyah dances professionally with GRV, and has credits as a backup dancer in music videos including Jennie - 'Mantra', Jung Kook - ‘3D’ and Nayeon - ‘ABCD’ , as well as in live performances on tour with KATSEYE, with Jennie on Jimmy Kimmel Live, TXT at Lollapalooza 2023, Stray Kids on YouTube Brandcast, and more (IU, DPR, KATSEYE, JYP).​​​
3 Category Judge
Seungyeon
From her debut in 2015 with CLC to now solo artist, Seung Yeon has been a force in the K-Pop scene, leading her group to international success with iconic hits like 'Helicopter', 'Hopgoblin', and 'Black Dress'. With over 110 million streams for 'Helicopter' alone and more than 70 million views on its MV, her influence is undeniable!
Solo, Small Group, & Large Group Dance Judge
GUnmin
Gunmin is an Artist, Choreographer, and Instructor. He debuted in 2014 as the main dancer of K-Pop boy group B.I.G (Boys in Groove). As a member, he participated in choreography creation, member training, and music video choreography directing for B.I.G's title and album tracks. Currently, Gunmin is an instructor at JustJerk.
Korean Singing Judge
Philip Guadagno
Philip Guadagno is a classically trained tenor and graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he studied under Dr. Gene Galvin. He has previously attended the Baroque Performance Institute at Oberlin Conservatory for continued training in Renaissance and Baroque-era repertoire and performance practice.
Korean Singing Judge
Jason rune
Jason Rune is a professional singer, actor, adn private voice instructor. As a graduate of the University of North Carolina Greensboro(MM in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy), Jason enjoys not only performing, but also implementing the newest research & techniques while doing so.
Featured Artist and Headliner Judges
1Verse
Known for their amazing stage presence, and dynamic versatility, 1VERSE has made a name for themselves through standout performances, and a deep passion for Korean music and dance culture. At KoreaFest 2026, 1VERSE will be judging multiple contest categories, carefully watching for artistry, technique, stage presence, and originality! They’re also excited to meet you all at an exclusive meet & greet, so get ready to connect! Whether you’re competing or attending, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Let’s give 1VERSE a warm welcome to North Carolina!