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)
- 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 culture and your home country’s culture.
- Short-Form Category (Under 1 minute)
- Compare Korean culture, food or language with that of yours.
- Imitate the voice or speech style of a character 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: 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
Criteria
K-pop signed CD giveaway
Host
Sponsors
Patrons
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.
8. Are dual nationals with Korean citizenship eligible to apply?
Unfortunately, applicants who hold Korean citizenship are not eligible to apply. However, dual nationals of Korean descent living abroad may be eligible if Korean is not their native language.
9. Does the video need to be filmed in one take, or is editing allowed?
We recommend filming the video in a single take without any cuts. Pausing and resuming the recording could result in a point deduction.
10. Is the winner of the signed album randomly drawn from all participants?
Yes, all participants who meet the contest eligibility requirements will be entered into a random draw to win a signed album.
This draw is conducted independently of the contest results, meaning that winners and nonwinners have an equal chance of receiving a signed album.
* In essence, even if you are not a winner of the speaking contest, you can still receive a signed album through the random draw.
