The Meditative Groomer Academy
Rooted in Racine, WI
Korea Competition Experience
Competition, education, and cultural immersion in South Korea
Presented by the North American Model Dog Team and the Meditative Groomer Academy in collaboration with the Korean Kennel Club
April 16–29, 2027
Extended Learning Experience begins April 16
Core Competition Experience begins April 22
Competition: April 24–25
THE EXPERIENCE
More Than a Competition
The Korea Competition Experience offers an eight-day Core journey from April 22–29, 2027, with an Extended Learning Experience beginning April 16. Both options are created for groomers who want to compete, learn, and experience South Korea with knowledgeable support throughout the trip.
From professional training and competition preparation to sightseeing, shopping, Korean food, and a recovery spa day, the experience combines professional growth with genuine cultural immersion.
You will travel with a group of fellow groomers while Harley provides in-country guidance, translation, transportation coordination, and competition support.
Come for the competition.
Leave with new skills, connections, and an entirely new perspective on grooming.
Come for the competition.
Leave with new skills, connections, and an entirely new perspective on grooming.
THE CORE EXPERIENCE
1
Thursday
Arrival & Welcome
April 22
Airport pickup, hotel check-in, welcome dinner, and group orientation.
3
Saturday
Competition Day One
The first full day of competition with transportation, translation, and on-site support.
April 24
5
Monday
April 26
Recovery & Spa Day
A slower day to rest, recover, and enjoy a traditional Korean spa experience.
7
Wednesday
April 28
Shopping & Flexible Time
Shopping, independent exploration, and optional nightlife at your own expense.
2
Friday
April 23
Preparation & Practice
Competition preparation and practice time, final supply checks, and group dinner.
4
Sunday
April 25
Competition Day Two & Celebration
The second competition day followed by a celebration and ferry experience, schedule permitting.
6
Tuesday
April 27
Sightseeing
A guided day exploring Korean culture, landmarks, food, and local experiences.
8
Thursday
April 29
Departure
Hotel checkout and coordinated transportation to the airport.
CORE PACKAGE INVESTMENT
What Your Experience Includes
Estimated total: $3,100–$3,700 per person
-
Private lodging, 7 nights: $700–$840
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Harley’s guide and translation services: $1,750
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Daily food budget: $140–$280
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Competition entry and basic supplies: $160–$185
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In-country transportation: $200–$400
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Planning buffer: $150–$250
April 22–29, 2027 | 8 Days and 7 Nights
Final pricing may change based on group size, lodging availability, transportation needs, and exchange rates.
The Extended Learning Experience
April 16–29, 2027
1
Friday
April 16
Arrival & Welcome
Airport pickup, hotel check-in, welcome dinner, and group orientation.
2
Saturday
April 17
Recovery & Light Sightseeing
A slower day to recover from travel, become familiar with the area, and enjoy a relaxed introduction to Korea.
3
Sunday
April 18
Flexible Day
Optional group outing, shopping, sightseeing, or additional time to rest and prepare for training.
4
Monday through Friday
April 19-23
Training at Mr. Kim’s Academy
Five full days of structured instruction and model-dog training at Mr. Kim’s academy in Gimpo.
Training will include Korean grooming techniques, guided practice, individualized feedback, and preparation that can be carried into the competition weekend.
5
Thursday Evening
April 22
Welcome the Core Group
Extended Experience participants will transition into the Core Competition Experience as the remaining travelers arrive.
6
Friday
April 23
Final Training & Competition Preparation
Complete the academy training week while preparing supplies, models, and equipment for competition weekend.
Extended Package Investment
What Your Experience Includes
Estimated training-week total: $4,660–$4,980 per person, before the core competition package.
The estimate includes:
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Five full academy training days
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Academy tuition
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Training wigs and classroom materials
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Harley’s guide and translation services
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Six additional lodging nights, April 16–22
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Scheduled transportation
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Food budget
-
Recovery and light sightseeing activities
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Planning and coordination
Final pricing may change based on lodging availability, exchange rates, transportation costs, group size, and final model-dog supply pricing.
Academy-Week Lodging
Lodging During the Extended Experience
Extended Experience participants will need six additional lodging nights from April 16–22 before the Core Competition Experience lodging begins.
Participants will be able to select the lodging style that best fits their budget and comfort needs.
Estimated lodging for approximately nine nights:
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Budget studio: $350–$500
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Private apartment: $700–$1,000
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Shared lodging: Cost will vary based on the number of participants
Participants will book and pay for their selected lodging, with guidance provided to help keep the group in the same general area.
Important Information
Before You Join
• Official dates are confirmed:
Extended Learning Experience, April 16–29, 2027
Core Competition Experience, April 22–29, 2027
Competition, April 24–25, 2027
• All pricing is currently estimated.
• Final costs may change based on exchange rates, group size, lodging availability, and transportation needs.
• International airfare is not included.
• Participants are responsible for obtaining a valid passport and meeting all entry requirements for South Korea.
• Personal shopping, premium dining, nightlife, optional upgrades, and additional supplies are not included.
• Participation in specific competition classes is subject to KKC rules, availability, and final registration approval.
• The itinerary may shift based on event timing and local availability.