The Korean Language Institute, Institute of Language Research and Education of Yonsei University held the 18th Annual Korean Language Writing Contest at campus amphitheater on October 8th, a day before Hangeul Day, the anniversary commemorating the birth of the unique writing system.

Since 1992, this annual contest to commemorate the invention of the Korean alphabet by King Sejong has opened to foreigners and Koreans residing abroad. The Korean Language Institute also held this Korean Language Writing Contest in several foreign countries to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the KLI .

A total of 1,765 participants from 72 countries participated in this contest. The contest was divided into two categories _ poetry and essay. The theme for the poetry was “fragrance,” and that for the essays was “choice.”

장단단 (poetry) and 장효리 (essay) won the first prize with 700,000 Won and trophies in this contest. Certificates of commendation, trophies and cash prizes were awarded to 69 winners. The contest has been planned to promote friendship among those who are learning the Korean language and includes Korean traditional percussion performances (Taekwondo and Korean masked dance) given by Korean students, as well as a lucky draw to give out souvenirs for some 150 participants.

A total of 850 participants joined in the Korean Language Writing Contest abroad; 6 countries (Vietnam, America, Japan, China, Kazakhstan, Australian) and 11 places (10 Universities and 3 High schools).