2026 Kawaii Kon Press Application

Aloha and welcome, press and media friends!
If you’re part of a media outlet and would like to cover Kawaii Kon, this application is your gateway to joining the fun.

Please read the Terms and Conditions in order to apply for a Press Badge. You may also refer to the FAQ on our press-media page: https://kawaiikon.com/registration/press-media/

Press Application Rules and Guidelines

Requirements:

To qualify as "Press" and receive complimentary entrance to this year’s convention, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Media Employment:
  • Currently employed by a recognized active media organization (magazines, newspapers, radio, television, cable or affiliate station, newscast, or online magazine).
    • Online magazines must have a minimum of 10,000 unique hits per month, verified via Google Analytics.
  • Assignment Proof:
    • Provide a letter of assignment from the media outlet.
• Student Journalists:
  • High school and university writers/reporters are encouraged to apply.
    Must provide a letter of intent signed by the applicant and their editor-in-chief or adviser on official school letterhead.
    • Note: Press passes will not be provided for advisers. Chaperones must register through the normal attendee system and pick up their passes at the Hawaii Convention Center’s standard queue.
• Verification:
  • We may request a business card with the company name, individual name, and contact information, or a recent company pay-stub for additional verification.
    Business cards without printed contact names will not be accepted due to the risk of misappropriation.

Standing 

• Must be in good standing with Kawaii Kon
• Must present a valid government-issued picture ID.
• Must be at least 18 years of age by or on April 24th, 2026.
• Notes:Organizations may receive a maximum of 2 complementary press badges. Registration is by individual, not by organization. Each person must complete their own form.
• Additional individuals from the same organization must purchase badges at the current registration price.
• No transfers, roll-overs, pass-ons, or refunds will be given.
• Hotel, food, and parking are not included with the complimentary badge.
• Being accepted this year does not guarantee acceptance for the following year

Process:

• Application Review:
  • Status of the application will be sent to the provided email address.
  • Upon acceptance, a confirmation email will be sent, and you will be placed on the press admission list. A picture ID is required when picking up your pass.
• Deadlines:
  • Online applications must be completed by April 10th, 2026.
  • Late applications may or may not be considered.
  • Information that cannot be verified may result in denial of the press pass.
• On-Site Registration:
  • Only for exceptional circumstances, as determined by the Press Manager.
  • Badges must be picked up at the Information booth on the 1st floor of the Hawaii Convention Center.

Post-Event:

All published content must be submitted to press@kawaiikon.com by May 27th 2026 for historical records.

Privileges and Limitations:

• Privileges:
  • Access to the press entrance at door 1 of the Hawaii Convention Center.
    Ability to schedule interviews with guests through Guest Relations staff, subject to availability.
• Limitations:
  • Press members must adhere to all Kawaii Kon policies.
  • Press members are not allowed in areas designated for authorized personnel only
  • Non-compliance with Press policies or Kawaii Kon policies may result in badge revocation.
• Ad Hoc Interviews:
  • Interviews with general members, dealers, and others do not require Kawaii Kon Press approval.
• Proper Behavior of Registered Press:
  • Conduct themselves professionally when acting in a press capacity, including:
    • Showing respect to guests, crew, and other participants.
    • Arriving early for scheduled interviews or notifying the Press team of delays.
    • Being prepared for interviews.
    • Complying with photo restrictions set by crew or guests.
    • Refraining from requesting autographs or personal photos with guests post-interview. Photos for coverage must be prearranged during interview scheduling.