The Young Stars and New Stars MAD Competitions kicked off today in Busan, ahead of the official opening of MAD STARS 2026. The competitions run through 28 August and challenge emerging creatives to build complete campaigns under real-world time constraints while receiving direct guidance from active industry professionals.
Empowering the next generation
Held annually as part of MAD STARS, the Young Stars and New Stars MAD Competitions provide two distinct tracks for developing the next generation of creative talent. Young Stars is open to undergraduate and master’s students of all majors worldwide, while New Stars is open to marketing, advertising, and related creative communications professionals with fewer than five years of experience.
The selected participants — 93 university students from 10 locations for Young Stars and 63 junior professionals from 9 locations for New Stars — have advanced to the on-site final in Busan to test their strategic thinking and execution skills.
A 30-hour mission for ocean conservation
Working from an on-site brief revealed on the morning of 25 August, participants have 30 hours to develop a comprehensive campaign. This year’s mission centers on the theme “Rethinking How We Protect Our Oceans.” Competitors must design campaigns that translate public awareness of marine pollution, such as plastic waste and microplastics, into everyday behavioral change.
The brief mandates the use of at least one AI tool during the creation process, requiring teams to submit specific prompts alongside their work to ensure transparency. Teams must submit their fully developed video campaigns by 3:00 PM on 26 August.
Real-world mentorship and global recognition
The submitted work will be evaluated by a jury of global industry leaders with experience in mentoring and developing advertising talent. The program includes “Conversation with the Jury” sessions on the morning of 28 August, where participants receive campaign-based feedback from the juries.
Winners will be announced that afternoon during the Awards Show. Both competitions award Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Crystal. Young Stars winners at Crystal level or above will be eligible for internship opportunities.
Beyond the competition
Participants will also experience the full MAD STARS program, including conferences, networking events, and other festival activities, and will connect with peers and professionals from around the world.
