Applications are open for the annual K-pop competition in New York, organizer Korean Cultural Service New York announced on Sunday.

The 2012 NY K-pop Festival, which celebrates its second edition this year, is sponsored by three major entertainment agencies: S.M., YG and JYP. There are three categories this year: singing, dancing, and singing and dancing.

Those interested in participating must pick a song by SHINee, Big Bang or the Wonder Girls, make a demo video of their performance, and upload it on YouTube. A separate application form is available on Korean Cultural Service New York’s website which must be filled out, including the URL of their YouTube video, and submitted online by Aug. 10.

A total of nine teams will be selected for the final competition who will then compete at New York University’s Skirball Center for the Performing Arts on Aug. 31. The top prize winner will be given an opportunity to compete at the World K-pop Festival which will be held in Korea in October, as well as free music CDs by popular K-pop artists.

For more information, visit www.koreanculture.org

By Claire Lee (dyc@heraldcorp.com)