Are you passionate about K-pop, K-dramas, or Korean culture and eager to showcase your Korean language skills? The Korean Language Speaking Contest 2025, hosted by The Korea Times, offers a golden platform for non-Korean speakers across the globe to express their love for Korean language and culture through creative video submissions. Whether you’re a self-taught enthusiast, a language student, or simply a cultural admirer, this international competition gives you the chance to shine—right from your own home.

This online contest welcomes foreign nationals and overseas Koreans who are non-native Korean speakers to demonstrate their language proficiency through engaging content. With prizes like signed K-pop CDs from world-famous groups, public recognition, and even an award from Korea’s Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Korean Language Speaking Contest is more than just a language challenge—it’s a cultural celebration.

Participants can choose between two video formats—Long-Form and Short-Form—each with unique themes and storytelling opportunities. So, whether you want to share your favorite K-pop story, imitate a K-drama character, or compare your native culture with Korea’s rich traditions, there’s a space for your voice.

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Host Country:

South Korea (Contest held virtually)

Organizer:

The Korea Times (in partnership with Howdy Korea)

Contest Format:

Online Video Submission

All entries must be submitted via YouTube and accompanied by a completed application form. The contest is open to a global audience, allowing participants from any country to showcase their Korean language abilities and cross-cultural communication skills.

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Contest Categories

Participants must choose one of the following submission formats:

Long-Form Video (2–3 minutes)

Ideal for those who enjoy storytelling or have a higher level of Korean fluency. Suggested themes include:

• Introducing your favorite K-pop group, K-drama, or Korean movie

• Sharing your personal journey of learning Korean or living in Korea

• Comparing Korean traditions with those of your own country

• Expressing how Korean culture has impacted your life

Short-Form Video (under 1 minute)

This format is perfect for those who want to make a big impact in a short time. Topics may include:

• A quick comparison of Korean food, fashion, or customs with your own culture

• Reenacting a favorite K-drama or movie scene

• Highlighting a fun or unique aspect of Korean culture

• Demonstrating a language trick, slang phrase, or idiomatic expression in Korean

Each submission must be original, entertaining, and primarily feature the participant speaking in Korean. This is not just a test of fluency, but of creativity, clarity, and confidence.

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Prizes and Recognition

The contest offers a variety of exciting awards to recognize the talent and effort of young Korean language learners:

• Signed K-pop CDs from globally popular groups like SEVENTEEN, TXT, ENHYPEN, and Stray Kids

• Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Award for outstanding performances

• Official features on The Korea Times and Howdy Korea’s YouTube channel

• Digital certificates and visibility for top videos

These rewards go beyond material prizes—they are a chance to gain visibility in the Korean cultural space and be acknowledged by key cultural institutions.

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Eligibility Criteria

To ensure broad participation, the contest maintains inclusive eligibility rules:

• Open to foreign nationals and overseas Koreans who are non-native Korean speakers

• No restrictions based on age, nationality, or academic background

• Each participant may submit only one entry under one category (Long-Form or Short-Form)

• Group submissions are not allowed; videos must be individual efforts

• The language used in videos must be Korean

Participants do not need to be enrolled in a formal language program. Enthusiastic learners from informal backgrounds are equally encouraged to apply.

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Video Submission Guidelines

Submissions must adhere to the following technical and content requirements:

Video Requirements:

• Short-Form Videos: Less than 1 minute in length

  • Format: Vertical (1080×1920 resolution)

• Long-Form Videos: Between 2 and 3 minutes

  • Format: Horizontal (1920×1080 resolution)

Content Rules:

• At least 80% of the footage must include the speaker talking directly to the camera

• Only minimal use of music, text overlays, or supplementary footage

• Video should be authentic, conversational, and engaging

You may use costumes, props, or references as long as they support your spoken content and do not overshadow the language demonstration.

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How to Apply

The application process is simple, free, and entirely online. Follow these steps:

1. Choose your category: Decide between Long-Form or Short-Form.

2. Create your video: Record your speech in Korean based on one of the suggested themes.

3. Upload to YouTube:

   • Use the hashtag #howdykorea in your video title

   • Set the video public (not private or unlisted)

4. Complete the online application form:

   • Provide your personal details, category selection, and video link

   • You may also be asked to describe your motivation and experience learning Korean

5. Submit the form before the deadline and await a confirmation email

Applications missing either the video or the form will not be considered.

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Application Deadline:

April 27, 2025

Make sure your video is uploaded to YouTube and your application form is submitted by this date. Late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.

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Why Participate in the Korean Language Speaking Contest?

This contest offers more than just the chance to win prizes—it provides a platform for self-expression, language development, and global cultural engagement. Whether you’re a fan of Korean pop culture or pursuing a career in international relations, translation, or education, this contest helps elevate your voice in the global Korean-speaking community.

You’ll gain:

• Public recognition from Korean cultural institutions

• Motivation to push your language learning to the next level

• A sense of global belonging among Korean culture enthusiasts

• A chance to connect with Korean speakers and organizations

• Visibility to future academic or exchange opportunities in Korea

Additionally, having a public video submission on a platform like YouTube is a great addition to your language learning portfolio and can be shared with future employers or university applications.

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Tips for a Winning Submission

To stand out in this international competition, keep these best practices in mind:

• Be yourself: Authenticity goes a long way. Speak clearly, confidently, and with passion.

• Stay on topic: Focus on one theme and build your speech around it. Don’t try to cover too many ideas.

• Practice pronunciation: Good pronunciation and intonation make a big difference in comprehension.

• Use simple but correct grammar: You’re not expected to speak perfectly—but you should aim for clarity and correctness.

• Make it visual: Your background, outfit, or props can support your message without overpowering your speech.

• Watch previous winners: Research past contests to understand tone, expectations, and creative angles.

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Final Thoughts

The Korean Language Speaking Contest 2025 is an exciting opportunity to celebrate your linguistic skills and love for Korean culture. Whether you’re inspired by music, movies, or the Korean language itself, your story matters—and this is your chance to tell it on a global stage.

As Korean language education expands globally, contests like these offer visibility, motivation, and community to learners of all levels. So step in front of your camera, speak from the heart, and let the world hear your Korean voice.