Foreigners Stun Judges! Korean Speaking Contest Winner Revealed!

The Korea Times is gearing up for its third annual Korean language Speaking Contest, and this year, the stakes are even higher. Scheduled to run from February 26th to May 7th, the contest promises to be a fantastic opportunity for foreigners to showcase their Korean language skills and compete for some seriously attractive prizes. We're talking a total of 12 million won (about $9,000) up for grabs.

Foreigners Stun Judges! Korean Speaking Contest Wi...

Last year's competition was a resounding success, drawing around 1,800 applicants. That huge number speaks volumes about the growing global fascination with Korean language and culture. But this year, The Korea Times is sweetening the deal with a brand new perk: a summer internship with their video production team. Imagine getting hands-on experience at a major Korean newspaper – talk about a resume booster!

This internship opportunity is specifically aimed at students currently enrolled in Korean universities or graduate programs, offering them invaluable real-world experience. It's a brilliant move by The Korea Times, fostering global talent and giving them a leg up in their careers. Beyond the internship, all participants will be able to request an official certificate of participation, which is a smart addition. I remember struggling to find ways to prove my language proficiency back in the day – this certificate will definitely be a boon for foreign students applying for jobs or further studies.

The contest itself is divided into two categories: speech and pronunciation. The speech category gives participants the freedom to choose their own subject, either in a long- or short-form video. Alternatively, they can tackle the suggested theme: "What is my favorite Korean thing?" It will be interesting to see the range of responses! The pronunciation category, on the other hand, sounds like a fun challenge: a timed tongue-twister video. Get ready to untangle those tricky Korean sounds!

A panel of judges will select a total of 20 winners, with the top prize being the prestigious Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Award. Talk about an honor! The winners will be revealed on May 26th, both in the newspaper itself and on The Korea Times website. So, if you think you've got the Korean language chops, now's your chance to shine. It's not just about winning; it's about immersing yourself in the culture and connecting with the Korean community.

"We hope this event will serve as a bridge for foreigners to explore the depth of Korean culture and connect more closely with Korean society," said an official from The Korea Times. And with the added internship opportunity, they're not just talking the talk; they're walking the walk. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone serious about Korean language and culture to gain valuable experience and build a foundation for future success.