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

This event aims to recognize and reward non-Korean nationals with a deep interest in the 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 the Korean language and culture and Korea’s influence on the international stage.

How to apply

Create and upload a video in Korean, either long (2-3 minutes) or short (under 1 minute), on YouTube.

*Add the hashtag #howdykorea in the video title and make the video public.

Complete and submit the online application form using the button.

Apply here!!

Topics (Choose one category to enter)

Long-Form Category (2-3 minutes)

• Introduce your favorite K-pop idol, drama, movie, actor, or webtoon.
• Share a funny or surprising story from your experience living in Korea or learning Korean.
• Compare the similarities and differences between Korean and your home country’s cultures.

Short-Form Category (Under 1 minute)

• Compare Korean culture, food, or language with yours.
• Imitate a character's voice or speech style from a Korean drama or movie while introducing yourself.
• 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: 10 March, Monday — 27 April, Sunday
• Announcement of winners: 14 May, Wednesday
• Awards ceremony: 29 May, 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

Prizes	Prize money	Number of Winners	Long-Form Category	Short-Form Category
Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Award	2.5 million won	1	1
President's Award of The Cyber University of Korea	1 million won	1	1
Grand Prize	1 million won	2	2
Excellence Award	500,000 won	3	2	1
Special SNS Award	400,000 won	2		2
Creative Award	300,000 won	4	2

• 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

Content	Language use	Delivery	Video quality	Views	Total
30	20	20	20	10	100

Short-Form Category

Content	Language use	Delivery	Video quality	Views	Total
30	30	20	10	10	100

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 Howdy Korea YouTube community board will announce the winners seven days after the contest results are published. Winners will also be contacted individually.

Host

The Korea Times

Sponsors

Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism 

Ministry of Eduaction 

The Cyber University of Korea

FAQ

1. Is there an age limit for applicants? No, there is no age restriction.
2. How will the prize money be distributed? Depending on the winner’s location, prizes will be transferred via bank remittance or awarded in person at the ceremony.
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 27 April at 11:59 PM (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 the disqualification and cancellation of the award.
• YouTube: howdykorea
• 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.