2025 외국인 한국어 말하기 대회 Korean Language Speaking Contest

 

 

https://klsc.koreatimes.co.kr/KoreanSpeakingContest_2025kor.html

2025 외국인 한국어 말하기 대회

The Korea Times will hold its second Korean Language Speaking Contest this year.

This event aims to recognize and reward non-Korean nationals who have a deep interest in Korean language and culture, encouraging them to continue exploring and engaging with the country.

As part of our mission, The Korea Times is committed to expanding the global presence of Korean language and culture, as well as Korea’s influence on the international stage.

How to apply

• Create and upload a video in Korean in either long form (2-3 minutes) or short form (under 1 minute) on YouTube.
  * Add the hashtag #howdykorea in the video title, make the video public.
• Complete and submit the online application form via the button.
•  

Topics

 

(Choose one category to enter)

• Long-Form Category (2-3 minutes)
  1. Introduce your favorite K-pop idol, drama, movie, actor or webtoon.
  2. Share a funny or surprising story from your experience living in Korea or learning Korean.
  3. Compare the similarities and differences between Korean culture and your home country’s culture.
• Short-Form Category (Under 1 minute)
  1. Compare Korean culture, food or language with that of yours.
  2. Imitate the voice or speech style of a character from a Korean drama or movie while introducing yourself.
  3. Share an interesting aspect of Korea or a unique characteristic of Koreans.

Eligibility

• Foreign nationals
• Overseas Koreans who are not native Korean speakers

Submission period

• Submission period: March 10, Monday — April 27, Sunday
• Announcement of winners: May 14, Wednesday
• Awards ceremony: May 29, Thursday (tentative)
• How to check winners: Winners will be announced in The Korea Times (print & online) and on the Howdy Korea YouTube channel.
• Awards ceremony participation: Winners residing overseas can participate online.

Prizes

• Long-Form Category: Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Award / President's Award of The Cyber University of Korea / Grand Prize / Excellence Award
• Short-Form Category: Excellence Award / Special SNS Award / Creativity Award

Criteria

• Long-Form Category
  

  

• Short-Form Category
  

  

K-pop signed CD giveaway

• All participants of the Korean Speaking Contest will be entered into a random draw to win a signed CD from a K-pop artist.
• K-pop artist signed CDs: TOMORROW X TOGETHER, ENHYPEN, SEVENTEEN, LE SSERAFIM, BOYNEXTDOOR, ILLIT, RIIZE, NCT DREAM, Stray Kids, NAYEON, AKMU, BABYMONSTER
• The winners will be announced on the Howdy Korea YouTube community board seven days after the contest results are published. Winners will also be contacted individually.

Host

Sponsors

 

 

FAQ

1. Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is no age restriction.

2. How will the prize money be distributed?
Prizes will be transferred via bank remittance or awarded in person at the ceremony, depending on the winner’s location.

3. How can I confirm my application has been successfully submitted?
A confirmation email will be sent to the email address you provided.

4. What is the submission deadline?
The deadline is April 27 at 11:59 p.m. (KST).

5. Can I apply in both the short-form and long-form categories?
No, applicants can only choose one category.

6. Are there any video requirements?
Short-form videos: Under 1 minute, resolution 1080x1920.
Long-form videos: 2-3 minutes, resolution 1920x1080.
At least 80% of the video must show the applicant speaking without using additional footage, music, photos or images.
* For example, in a 60-second video, at least 48 seconds should show the applicant speaking. Subtitles are allowed.
* Failure to meet these requirements or reading directly from a script on screen may result in point deductions.

7. Can I use AI-generated content?
No. AI-generated voices or faces are strictly prohibited. Any detected use will result in disqualification.

• Participants are responsible for any legal issues, including copyright or plagiarism claims. If violations are discovered, awards may be revoked even after the ceremony.
• Winners will be required to submit supporting documents, and any false information may lead to disqualification and cancellation of the award.

• For more information, call (02) 724-2869 or contact eldorado@koreatimes.co.kr

Winning Entries

• Check out the winning entries of the 2024 Korean Speech Contest for Foreigners